Hinsdale High School Teachers Association

Key to understanding what “class size” means is understanding how class size is measured, as the terms used to describe class size are often misleading or misunderstood. For example, what is an “average” class size? Often in response to class sizes concerns the District’s Pupil/Certified Staff ratio is cited as being below state averages. To the layman, this answer may suffice and even impress. But as educators, it is our duty to educate not only the students in our classrooms these figures attempt to quantify, but also ourselves on what these terms mean - especially in light of growing concerns by HHSTA educators over the size of their classes.

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The Vision / Strategic Plan document, “A Future of Excellence,” was presented to the District 86 Board Monday night by the Board’s consultants, ECRA Group. The report contains the “fundamental goals and initiatives that were derived from the key findings of the strategic planning process” undertaken ECRA Group.

The Doings, in their article “Consultants: District 86 Great, Could Be Better” found the findings of low satisfaction among teachers and staff “startling”:

“Among the report’s more startling findings was a generally low satisfaction level among teachers and staff members.

“The faculty and staff don’t feel supported by the board and appreciated in their work,” John Gatta said. “These are the lowest levels we’ve seen compared to other schools.”

A year ago, dozens of Central and South teachers packed board meetings to voice a number of concerns centering on low morale and poor relations with the board.

“We hope to change that,” board member Dianne Barrett said.”

For more on all of ECRA Group’s findings, read the whole report by downloading a copy here.

Recently, Varsity Girls’ Gymnastics team member Colleen Morgan organized a gymnastics leotard resale fund raiser and collected over $23,000 in proceeds and donations for the Make-A-Wish Foundation! Since 1980, the Make-A-Wish Foundation has granted children who are facing life-threatening illnesses opportunities to experience their fondest dreams. When you consider any charitable giving in the near or distant future, please keep this worthy organization in mind: www.wish.org

Colleen’s teammates and their parents also held a bake sale at their last two home invitationals and through proceeds and donations raised over $1,000 for the Leukemia Research Foundation. The girls’ team’s head coach is Kim Estoque.

As a proud assistant coach (and as a grateful father whose daughter has had her own wish granted) I wanted you to know about the generous efforts of your girls’ gymnastics team and their head coach, as well as the great organizations they support!

Sincerely,
Mr. Myles J. Laffey
Library Information Specialist
Assistant Gymnastics Coach