by David Safier I had a long phone conversation with someone from another state about an education concern we have in common. I sensed early we probably didn't agree on political issues, so I stayed away from political topics, as did she. We had a very enjoyable, informative conversation which was valuable for both of … Read more
LD16 Republican Candidate Forum? I can see your raised eyebrows. Well, yes, this topic seems a bit far-afield from my usual subjects, but it could be interesting. This primary pits businessman and freshman Representative John Fillmore against State Senator Rich Crandall, who moved to LD16 to avoid running against his "nemesis" (according to Sonoran Alliance) … Read more
by Pamela Powers Hannley
Multiple levels of court cases related to TUSD's Mexican American Studies (MAS) are winding their way through the judicial system.
There's the case of former MAS teacher and whistle-blower John Ward against former MAS chair Sean Arce and teacher Jose Gonzales. (Three versions of this story and links to fundraising appeasl for both sides, here: 1, 2, 3. #1 is Ward's affidavit plus other statements; it gives you an idea why he blew the whistle. #2 is a fundraising appeal for former MAS head Sean Arce. #3 is a fundraising event for Ward. It's interesting to note that Attorney General Tom Horne spoke at the fundraiser for Ward. Is that some sort of conflict of interest for an AG?)
There's the lawsuit against SB2281– the racist Arizona Legislature bill crafted by then Superintendent of Public Instruction Horne and gleefully implemented by AG Horne. (Close as I can tell, #1 above is an excerpt from the supporting documents for this court case.)
And last but certainly not least… the decades-old TUSD desegregation suit. Is TUSD in compliance with the desegregation suit or not? This goes back and forth. (Here's some background.) Horme wants to keep his thumb on the pulse of what's left of MAS and wants to play a role in the creation of the replacement curriculum, which would be protected under the desegregation order. Recently, a federal judge officially told Horne to butt out of the TUSD desegragation case, but Horne is not ready to let go of the MAS bone.
Video after the jump.
by Pamela Powers Hannley Well, if you always wondered what the big deal was with Mexican American Studies (MAS) classes, here is your opportunity to attend a free community class taught by an MAS instructor Curtis Acosta. (I wonder if they allow video cameras?)
by Pamela Powers Hannley
TUSD board members released the following statement after Mexican American Studies (MAS) supporters demonstrated in front of Mark Stegeman's house and made unannounced visits to the homes of Miguel Cuevas and Michael Hicks.
MIGUEL CUEVAS AND MARK STEGEMAN CALL FOR CIVILITY
July 25, 2012 – Tucson, Arizona – Over the past few days, Miguel Cuevas, TUSD Board President, and Mark Stegeman, TUSD Board member, have each had their personal residences violated by pro-MAS groups. The same groups that have chained themselves to desks in the TUSD boardroom and tossed smoke bombs at public meetings have staged protests outside the homes of both board members.
“Not only do I work during the day, but I live with my grandparents. So when I got the call telling me that protesters were at my home, I had to call my father and send him over to my house. By the time he got there, my grandmother was in tears. She was terrified of the protesters and my father had to tell them to vacate our property,” said Miguel Cuevas.
“Not only did demonstrators come to my house last week while I was at work, but last year protesters came to my workplace, disrupting a class that I teach at the University of Arizona and plastering posters around my office. Students who pay to come to school to learn should not be subjected to such rude behavior,” said Mark Stegeman.
Mr. Cuevas and Dr. Stegeman agree that it is time to call for civility and are asking the community to support that effort. “We are elected by the community, serve the community, and sometimes make hard decisions for the benefit of the community as a whole. Our work should not expose our homes and families to invasion and harassment.”
Video after the jump.