A Persistent Fantasy

OK. So, here's a snippet from yesterday's press release from Karen McCuiston at Murray State University which was distributed by KDE:

Governor Signs Kentucky

Safe Schools Week Proclamation

Frankfort, Ky...Today at 1:30 p.m.,Governor Steve Beshear signed the Kentucky Safe Schools Proclamation and officially proclaimed October 18-24, 2009, Kentucky Safe Schools Week...

The theme for Kentucky Safe Schools Week ... will be “Follow the Golden Rule, Be Safe Online and at School”, coinciding with last year’s passing of House Bill 91 or “The Golden Rule Act”, a prohibition against bullying, harassment and other forms of intimidation--including cyber bullying via the Internet.

A week to highlight an important aspect of school safety is certainly welcome and I hope it serves to promote social justice in our schools.

But the persistent tendency to promote a discarded aspect of House Bill 91, the [anti] Bullying Bill, continues to amuse and baffle me. What discarded aspect? Why, the Golden Rule itself.

Mike Cherry's original version of House Bill 91 contained this language:

"...amend KRS 158.148 to require school districts to formulate a code of acceptable behavior and discipline that embraces the Golden Rule as the model for improving attitude and the rule for conduct for students..."

Cherry's excellent bill was truly intended to be The Golden Rule Act and specified that title. It passed the House 96-0 and was sent to the Senate.

But amid the all-too-typical-dysfunctional-schennagans one can find in the legislative process Senate President David Williams removed that language and replaced it with a poison pill that had to be worked out in a free conference committee. Williams wanted "to require school personnel to report incidents of student offenses under KRS Chapter 508, criminal harassment, or harassing communications to law enforcement, with a requirement that the incident be investigated," which was a roundly objected to for the likelihood that it would ridiculously cripple local law enforcement.

The Golden Rule was nowhere to be found in the final bill.

It is surely some measure of public sentiment that the bill continues to be called by the (now inaccurate) title that most folks seem to wish were true.

I asked Williams for an explanation back in March, 2008 (before it was too late):

"I'm confused as to why you took language out of the HB 91 that would have required schools to use the central teaching of Jesus in disciplining Kentucky students. Can you help me understand that? Do you have a better foundation for public school discipline in mind?" I asked.

I'm still waiting for a reply; very patiently.

Cherry's bill called for KRS 158.440 "to identify the Golden Rule as the model for improving attitude and the rule for conduct for all public school students." But, thanks to Williams, it doesn't.

Cherry wanted "KRS 158.148 to require school districts to formulate a code of acceptable behavior and discipline that embraces the Golden Rule as the model..." But, thanks to Williams, it doesn't.

Neither do sections 150, or 444 as Cherry's bill intended.

If conservatives want to find out who is "taking God out of the schools" they need to look no further than Senate President David Williams.

But for some reason, the folks in charge of don't seem to get it. Oh well.

Here's the complete announcement:

Governor Signs Kentucky

Safe Schools Week Proclamation

Frankfort, Ky...Today at 1:30 p.m.,Governor Steve Beshear signed the Kentucky Safe Schools Proclamation and officially proclaimed October 18-24, 2009, Kentucky Safe Schools Week. Witnesses to this auspicious event were students from Woodford County Schools representing over 670,000 students from across the Commonwealth. Jon Akers, Executive Director of the Kentucky Center for School Safety (KCSS) said, “Kentucky teachers and administrators make every effort to create caring environments for their students throughout the Commonwealth, but there is much that can still be done.”

The theme for Kentucky Safe Schools Week (October 18-24) will be “Follow the Golden Rule, Be Safe Online and at School”, coinciding with last year’s passing of House Bill 91 or “The Golden Rule Act”, a prohibition against bullying, harassment and other forms of intimidation--including cyber bullying via the Internet. The use of the current legislation and data derived from our web analysis tools, Kentucky Safe Schools Week 2009-2010 will focus on Strategies to Combat Bullying with an emphasis on Cyber Bullying.

This week long observance will be used, in part, to bring together all Kentuckians in a concerted effort to improve school climate and thus the educational process. “The KCSS offers our support as a collaborative partner to the schools and citizens of the Commonwealth,” said Akers, “to come together to create community-wide events that focus on bullying and cyberbullying awareness and prevention during Kentucky Safe Schools Week.”

Involving youth in prevention efforts is vital to changing culture and managing bullying and cyberbullying in our schools and communities. The KCSS continues to provide an interactive “Online Pledge Against Bullying” and this year will introduce our new “Online Pledge Against Cyberbullying”. An array of resources focused
on school safety, with lesson plans and activities for students, parents, educators and the whole community are available on line at http://www.kysafeschools.org/.

This state observance complements the national campaign. The Kentucky “Follow the Golden Rule, Be Safe Online and at School!” campaign is sponsored by the KCSS.
America’s Safe Schools Week is sponsored by the National School Safety Center.

“People realize now is the time to join together to insure the safety and well-being of our children, and to provide quality education for the future leaders of our country,” said Akers.

No Gold in the Golden Rule Act

Don't get me wrong, Governor Steve beshear should sign the anti-bully HB 91. The poisionous provisions penned by Senate President David Williams have been removed by a conference committee.

And, I'm not holding myself up as an example for anyone when it comes to religion.

But I don't know why the press continues to identify House Bill 91 as the "Golden Rule Act." Williams removed the Golden Rule as soon as he got his hands on it in mid March.

Mike Cherry's excellent measure passed the House 96-0 with the following language, "Amend KRS 158.440 to identify the Golden Rule as the model for improving attitude and the rule for conduct for all public school students..."

Williams took that language out.

For a guy who supports posting the Ten Commandments on public buildings, William's move seems ...unenlightened to me.

So, I wrote to Senator Williams recently in an effort to learn his rationale.

It went something like this...

Senator Williams,

It seems you have always supported posting of the Ten Commandments.

For that reason, I'm confused as to why you took language out of the HB 91 that would have required schools to use the central teaching of Jesus in disciplining Kentucky students. Can you help me understand that?

Do you have a better foundation for public school discipline in mind?

Are you not concerned that rejecting the Golden Rule, which is common to all major religions and therefore might survive a court challenge, while promoting the Ten Commandments, which are uniquely Judaeo-Christian, only serves to give the court more evidence that posting the Commandments is truly an unconstitutional attempt to establish religion?

Respectfully,

Richard Day
Kentucky School News and Commentary

I haven't heard back yet.

No ancient law or prophesy could possibly be more "Christian" than the teachings of Jesus himself. Clearly "the Golden Rule" is central to Christianity. A public school disciplinary code that keeps the Golden Rule, keeps the faith.

But that's NOT why it should be the basis for student discipline in the public schools.

The Golden Rule should be the basis for all student discipline because it is also central to all major religions - and I've never heard an atheist or agnostic object to its principles either.

Because of its wide-spread acceptance among the world's religions, it does not establish religion the way that posting the Ten Commandments would. ...or requiring daily reading from the Qur'an would. ...or requiring transcendental meditation would. ...or teaching transubstantiation would. Those acts would be specific to a particular religion, and would therefore be unconstitutional.

For some, posting the Ten commandments is a political ploy. For most, I hope, it is a sincere desire to see our children reared with moral principles. In the latter sense, it's the right idea - but the wrong number. We should post the "second commandment" only.

One of the problems facing Ten Commandments-posting advocates is, once the courts have evidence that the true motivation behind the desire to post them is religious, and therefore unconstitutional, it's hard to get the court to forget by simply adding on a few other documents.

Whining about the Ten Commandments while rejecting the Golden Rule is counter-productive to our children's best interest.

A synopsis of the surviving language in the Conference Committee Report from KyVotes.org follows:

Create a new section of KRS Chapter 158 to require school personnel to report incidents of student felony offenses under KRS Chapter 508 to law enforcement and parents of students involved;

amend KRS 158.444 to require a local school district to include in its statewide data report all incidents in which a student has been disciplined by the school for a serious offense, including the nature of the offense, and all incidents in which a student has been charged criminally for any offense identified in KRS Chapter 508 or in Section 4 of this Act that occurred on school premises, on the school bus, or at school functions;

require the Kentucky Department of Education to submit to the Office of Education Accountability and the Education Assessment and Accountability Review Committee an annual statistical report, rather than a monthly statistical report, to include the number and types of incidents of violence or assault against school employees and students, possession of guns or other deadly weapons on school property or at school functions, and possession or use of alcohol, prescription drugs, or controlled substances on school property or at school functions;

require the annual statistical report to include monthly data and cumulative data for the reporting year; set the reporting period as an academic year, delivered by August 31 of each year;

amend KRS 158.148 to require the Kentucky Department of Education, in consultation with various professional agencies, to develop or update as needed, a model policy to be distributed to schools by August 31 of each even-numbered year, beginning August 31, 2008;

amend KRS 525.070 to identify specific activities done by a student as harassment;

amend KRS 525.080 to identify specific activities done by a student as harassing communication.

David Williams' Poison Pill for Bullying Bill

After refusing to allow an anti-bullying bill to move in the Senate for four sessions, Senate President David Williams finally capitulated. Or, did he? After "removing Jesus" from the House's version Williams designed a devilish counter punch.

As Mark Hebert tell us,

"[Williams] says kids who intimidate, harass or embarrass other kids should be sent to the court system where professionals can properly deal with them."

I wonder what Supreme Court Chief Justice Joseph Lambert thinks about that.

Is Williams really that far removed from the reality of today's schools? It's hard enough to get the courts to deal with a persistently violent 10-year old. They don't have anywhere to go with them.

The idea of criminalizing kindergartners who embarrass another student is so misguided that Hebert wonders aloud if Williams' bill is designed to kill itself.

This from Mark Hebert @WHAS.

Sen. Williams' Bully Bill Designed to Kill It???

Little Johnny and Little Susie could be in shackles for harassing their classmates under a new "Bully Bill" proposed by Sen. David Williams today.

Williams' version of the "Bully Bill" unanimously passed the Senate Judiciary Committee and later passed the full senate. The Senate has refused to even hear any version of a "Bully Bill" for the past four legislative sessions. But Senate President Williams has been catching plenty of heat from WHAS Radio talk show host "Francene" for refusing to push for a vote for Rep. Mike Cherry's version of the bill, which unanimously passed the House. So today, the Senate Judiciary Committee heard from Cherry and Williams co-opted his bill with a committee substitute. Here are the highlights:

When a teacher gets wind of a student threatening, harassing or embarrassing another student, the teacher MUST report it to the school principal.

The principal is REQUIRED to report every instance of alleged intimidation or threat to the police or county attorney within 48 hours. The cops or prosecutor are then REQUIRED to investigate the allegation.

Failure to report is a Class B misdemeanor, the same as failure to report suspected child abuse...

Also, Mike Cherry's version of House Bill 91 contained this language:

"...amend KRS 158.148 to require school districts to formulate a code of acceptable behavior and discipline that embraces the Golden Rule as the model for improving attitude and the rule for conduct for students..."

David Williams removed it. Why?

David Adams over at Kentucky Progress writes:

Senate Democrats are up in arms because the House's "bullying" bill got a committee
substitute from President David Williams that doesn't include the word "bullying" or the phrase "The Golden Rule." More symbolism over substance, as usual, from that chamber's minority party.

As a former school principal, I sure see it differently.

In a school system where all children enjoy the same rights (We all want that - right?) Cherry's focus on the Golden Rule is not just symbolism. It is everything. Everything teachers do flows from there. If a student acts in a hurtful way toward another student, schools have a moral obligation to look after those in need of protection. The school is also obliged to help the persecutors learn a better way - not to criminalize them.

No ancient law or prophesy could possibly be more Christian than the teachings of Jesus himself. Clearly "the Golden Rule" is central to Christianity. A public school disciplinary code that keeps the Golden Rule, keeps the faith.

But that's NOT why it should be the basis for student discipline in the public schools.

The Golden Rule should be the basis for all student discipline because it is also central to the other major religions - and I've never heard an atheist or agnostic object to it either.

Because of its wide-spread acceptance among the world's religions, it does not establish religion the way that posting the Ten Commandments would. ...or requiring daily reading from the Qur'an would. ...or requiring transcendental meditation would. ...or teaching transubstantiation would. Those acts would be specific to a particular religion, and would therefore be unconstitutional.

If David Williams has a superior moral basis for guiding Kentucky teachers in the disciplining of their students, let's hear what it is.

Sex, Religion and Politics

The other day, I posted an item from Merlene Davis announcing the local screening of the documentary film Straightlaced: How ­Gender’s Got Us All Tied Up. At the heart of the film is an underlying question. What kind of disciplinary code ought to be employed in the schools?

Davis's piece drew a protracted response from Martin Cothran on his blog - which used to speak truly, but now is clinging to the vestiges of western cultural domination.

Cothran makes final policy decisions and manages strategy for the Kentucky Family Foundation. According to their writings, the Family Foundation apparently believes in Mom and Dad, more Bible than Jesus, and hopes to “encourage, equip and empower educators according to Biblical principles” through its Christian Educators Association.

He opens with a little innuendo,

Merlene Davis of the Lexington Herald-Leader doesn't miss her chance to promote the movie, which was shown this weekend and sponsored by the Central Kentucky Council on Peace and Justice.

Similarly, Cothran doesn't miss his chance to detract.

The film is about a boy named "Josh," an openly gay student at Lexington, Kentucky's Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School who committed suicide and a fellow student name "Hannah" who was his friend and who later died in a car accident. Josh is described as having a "flamboyant personality," which attracts the negativity of his peers. It's never stated outright, but you get the definite impression that Josh's death is to be laid at the feet of anyone who has a traditional view of human sexuality.

A traditional view of sexuality? Really?

Is Cothran suggesting that the nail that sticks up will be hammered down; or should be; and somehow, that's OK? ...because it's majority rule? ...it's traditional? ...because the kid's asking for it by daring to be different? Shipman seems to be cast as having caused his own torment.

Hummm. I had the idea that Josh was repeatedly bullied by stronger kids acting in concert.

Now, let me quickly add that I have not seen the film. But my limited research reveals a very mixed picture of Shipman that is likely to defy the kind of easy (predetermined) conclusions we bloggers love.

Shipman's young middle school friends decried his school experience on the Josh Shipman Foundation MySpace page. It's pretty much what you'd expect.

Many of You Knew Him. But For Most of You Not In A Good Way. Most of You Picked On Him and Called Him Names. Most of You Called Him "Wierd" or "Fag". Joshua Shipman died Thursday night. He hung himself in his room and his father fount him...people called him a queer and a fag. Why do you care about his sexual life unless your involved in it? Seriously!

In the 7th grade he would come to school everyday with bruises...He tried so hard everyday for people to like him. He would talk to you and you'd laugh. He'd smile at you and you'd look away. He'd claim you were a friend and you would deny him. It's really sad that it takes someone losing their life for people to get the hint.

...i knew josh during my 6th-7th grade year...i considered him a friend to me and i always tried to be there for him whenever he was teased...after he left winchester, i never saw or talked to him...but i always remembered who he was...i will never forget him...

...you was my friend since the 5th grade you was the first person to talk to me .. when i moved here to winchester.. you was always nice to me 7th grade before u moved away i told u bye .. and never saw u agian ... until i was told what u have done i dont blame u .. its everyone else u treated you the way they treated you.

Middle school is no place to be too different.

But Shipman made it to high school, and following his suicide in November 2006, Raviya Ismail wrote in the H-L (no longer available at H-L but reprinted here):

Josh Shipman made an impression. From his tightly wound corsets to his dark clothing, he was both an enigma and an open book.

He'd strut the halls of Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in his signature black boots and fluorescent pink hair. Goth and colorful, gay and Wiccan, open and reticent, Josh was a walking contradiction. But friends best remember him for the kisses and tight hugs he gave so freely. Those friends crowded into a funeral home recently to pay their respects to Josh, who committed suicide at home on Oct. 5, a week before his 16th birthday. Many dyed their hair pink and wore gay-pride ribbons in remembrance.

Was it a fear of those who are too different that caused Shipman's pain and prompted these traditional kids to torment him - when they might have chosen, rather, to love their neighbor or at least leave him alone? Were they allowed (or encouraged) to bully the quirky student? Did Shipman, by virtue of being different, invite his tormentors - or was there something more?

Shipman had every citizen's right to be whatever his creator made him. Shipman's father told H-L it was pretty clear that Josh was gay from the age of 4 or 5. That does not sound like a choice to me. It sounds more like a natural inclination.

Straightlaced is described as being about the acceptance of others regardless of their dress, sexual orientation or desire to wear a particular color. But Cothran's not buying any of it.

What, exactly, does "acceptance" mean here? Is this, like, some neutral kind of acceptance that just means I'm supposed to recognize and respect others as human beings despite the fact that I think their lifestyle is abnormal and in many cases self-destructive (and in some cases just silly)? Wait. Self-destructive?

How could I say that? That's so insensitive and intolerant. Am I not ashamed of myself for saying this?

Well, actually, no. I know that in modern liberal secular society, which has constantly championing social policies that contribute to the disconnection of people from real cultures and real relationships, we are supposed to have compassion for people we don't know.

Cothran is a smart guy and I sure he understands Shipman's rights. But here he subordinates them in order to better assert his own. Then he gets mired in his defense of traditionalism. Cothran makes it sound like there is only one culture - his. One lifestyle - his. ...the traditional western civilization WASP heterosexual culture, one supposes. (Hey wait. That's my culture too.)

It ought not escape us that suicide has traditionally been considered a crime in that tradition. Ireland, for example, decriminalized suicide as late as 1993. (I never really understood what good it did for a secular government authority to criminalize the last act of a dead man. Is there money in it for someone somewhere? Does it make church leaders politically stronger somehow? I don't have a clue.)

But all of this assumes that Josh's suicide was a simple matter of bullying. As I learned a long time ago, people are very complex and there's almost always more going on than appears on the surface.

Ishmail reported other serious complicating factors - Shipman's self-mutilation problem, feeling rejected by his mother and battles with his dad. "Josh was diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and an attachment disorder -- characterized by becoming overly close to people who expressed even a minor interest in him. Josh was medicated for some of these problems." In September 2005 Josh was placed in a group home in Louisville, which he ran away from; he eventually spent 10 months at the Barnabas Home in Annville getting treatment and counseling for his problems.

The living now speculate on what really caused Josh's life-ending decision. He left no note.

But Cothran knows. It was another of his regular strawmen who did it - the "modern liberal secular society" which is "constantly championing social policies" that allows folks to be different. That's the problem.

I disagree.

I think it is the modern liberal Christian society that contributes to Cothran's consternation. It seems to me that those who think Jesus trumps the Bible have a much clearer notion of what the Golden Rule means in practice. These mainstream Christians would make the Golden Rule the foundation of every school's disciplinary code. If the Family Foundation finds fault with Christ's teachings, Cothran will have to let us know.

Now, it matters not at all what Cothran (or I) believes, but any scholar ought to get his attributions straight. There is a long-standing (dare I say, fairly traditional) Christian impulse that is alive and well in America. These mainstream Christians don't think Jesus was kidding and might not appreciate Cothran misnaming their motivations for some perceived political gain. The entire social gospel movement is clearly not secular. Many Christians see it as obedient. Many are writing checks to Haitian relief today.

Behind all of this is an underlying attitude at the crux of traditional western civ thinking. It is superiority. Cothran is sure that, if he had known Shipman, he would have "felt very sorry" for him. And there's his notion of "an exercise in tolerance" which, as Washington understood, presupposes that one is superior and may tolerate his inferiors, or not, at his choosing. If that's not a secular view, I'm not sure what is. What lesson from Jesus have I missed that promotes intolerance and injustice?

I wonder if part of the issue involves how folks see human sexuality. Many heterosexuals, it seems to me, see sexuality as a dichotomy. You have "outdoor plumbing" - you're a man. Act like it. Indoor? Get in the kitchen. Fix me some meatloaf.

I wonder if it isn't more of a continuum, albeit bimodal.

The sooner we realize that someone will always defy our categories and yet still maintain their rights as citizens, the sooner America will approach the teaching of Jesus.

But maybe I have misjudged the Family Foundation's idea of what it means to follow Christ, or be a Christian.

Isn't it a secular impulse to use religion for one's own political purposes?

Now this is a lot of religion talk from a public school guy, so let me be clear about where I'm coming from. I am NOT arguing in favor of establishing Christianity as the basis for discipline in the public schools. But I am suggesting that the central principle of Christianity should undergird the disciplinary code in all American schools, including Jewish schools, Muslim schools....all.

No ancient law or prophesy could possibly be more "Christian" than the direct teachings of Jesus himself. Clearly "the Golden Rule" is central to Christianity. A public school disciplinary code that keeps the Golden Rule, keeps the faith.

But that's NOT why it should be the basis for student discipline in the schools.

The Golden Rule should be the basis for all student discipline because it is also central to all other major religions as well - and I've never heard an atheist or agnostic object to its principles either.

Because of its wide-spread acceptance among the world's religions, it does not establish religion the way that posting the Ten Commandments would. ...or requiring daily reading from the Qur'an would. ...or requiring transcendental meditation would. ...or teaching transubstantiation would. Those acts would be specific to a particular religion, and would therefore be unconstitutional.

Our schools, and our world, would be better if more of us followed the Golden Rule - and if it was enforced in the schools, just maybe, Josh Shipman would still be alive and getting the help he needed.

The Golden Rule Act: Or, Will David Williams take Jesus out of the schools?

If conservatives want to find out who is "taking God out of the schools" they need to look no further than Senate President David Williams.

Williams is comfortable enough pandering to the fundamentalist crowd by supporting Ten Commandments legislation every chance he gets. But what explanation might he provide for removing the central teachings of Jesus from the Anti-Bullying bill currently in conference committee.

Mike Cherry's version of House Bill 91 contained this language:

"...amend KRS 158.148 to require school districts to formulate a code of acceptable behavior and discipline that embraces the Golden Rule as the model for improving attitude and the rule for conduct for students..."

David Williams removed that language. Why? What could Williams possibly find objectionable with the "greatest commandment?" The public deserves an explanation.

This from PolWatchers:

Lawmakers seek compromise on anti-bullying bill

Lawmakers negotiating the details of a bill aimed at curbing schoolhouse bullying said they hit no "major snags" on Monday.

The House-Senate conference committee on the "bullying" bill, House Bill 91, met for about 45 minutes Monday afternoon in closed conference. Afterwards, Rep. Mike Cherry, D-Princeton, the bill's sponsor, said "things went well."

"My side presented a compromise piece of legislation that I think was favorably received," Cherry said. He would not go into specifics and would not provide a copy of his proposal. He described it as a blending of the House and Senate versions, "using the Senate as the text."

Cherry's original version, "The Golden Rule Act," would require schools to write codes of conduct that prohibit "harassment, intimidation, or bullying." He added a floor amendment in the House to include "cyberbullying" by electronic communication.

A separate Senate version of the bill had been stalled in committee and Senate Democrats tried repeatedly and unsuccessfully to spring it with a discharge petition.

Instead, Senate President David Williams, R-Burkesville, amended Cherry's version to "put some teeth into it." Schools would be required to report bullying to law enforcement, and would be required to issue a monthly report on all incidents.

Cherry sounded optimistic a compromise finally can be reached. "I don't even see any major snags at this point," Cherry said. "We think the reporting requirement of their side is a little harsh, and monthly reporting is a little much." ...

Petrilli v Silberman: Friday's Hearing

Fayette County Circuit Court, Civil Division III, Case # 08 CI 608, Judge Ishmael presiding:

• John McNeill (Landrum & Shouse) representing Fayette County Public Schools, moved to dismiss the amended complaint filed against school board attorney Brenda Allen.
• McNeil also moved to dismiss the board from an abuse of process claim.
• Dale Golden (Golden & Walters) representing Peggy Petrilli filed a detailed response.
• McNeil filed a reply.
• The issues were argued before the judge Friday.

Golden told KSN&C,

"Most of the argument centered around the premise, put forth by opposing counsel, that [Silberman] was under an obligation...to create that report."

"They're trying to get out from under a defamation claim I raised in my complaint. And they're trying to say that when you're obligated to do the report, that it's a privileged communication...under obligation of law; that they did not have a choice in it and should not be responsible. And they also claimed that the Lexington Herald-Leader got a copy of it through the Open Records Act, and therefore, they're not responsible..."

To qualify as defamatory communication something must be published through a third party.

Golden's retort was that FCPS was not obligated to do the report and he cited Stu Silberman from H-L's August 26th article where he declined to comment on the BTWA parent's specific concerns telling the Herald-Leader it was a moot point since Petrilli was leaving.

Golden added,

"That's what I hearken back to, to say No, they were not under an obligation...If you don't believe me, listen to what Stu Silberman said."

Golden also cited KRS 161.120 (2) (a):

The superintendent of each local school district shall report in writing to the Education Professional Standards Board the name, address, phone number, Social Security number, and position name of any certified school employee in the employee's district whose contract is terminated or not renewed, for cause except failure to meet local standards for quality of teaching performance prior to the employee gaining tenure; who resigns from, or otherwise leaves, a position under threat of contract termination, or nonrenewal, for cause; who is convicted in a criminal prosecution; or who otherwise may have engaged in any actions or conduct while employed in the school district that might reasonably be expected to warrant consideration for action against the certificate under subsection (1) of this section. The duty to report shall exist without regard to any disciplinary action, or lack thereof, by the superintendent, and the required report shall be submitted within thirty (30) days of the event giving rise to the duty to report.

Golden said,

"They tried to distinguish the statute by saying, 'No, No, that's only if she gets terminated. She was not terminated.' And I pointed out to the court...this statute says termination, resignation or otherwise. That's how broad it is."

Golden's due process argument is that if FCPS had an obligation under law it was pursuant to this statute. If that's the case they failed to meet the requirements because the report was 8 months late. "It's a checkmate, Golden said."

Or, if FCPS did not have an obligation to report "then the whole defense for why it's not defamatory fails," Golden said.

KSN&C also put in a call to FCPS attorney John McNeill, but hasn't heard back yet.

Here's H-L's story:

Judge puts off ruling in Petrilli suit

Fayette Circuit Judge James Ishmael said he needed more time to decide whether he would dismiss a former elementary school principal's defamation claim against the school board.

During a hearing Friday morning, Ishmael told attorneys he was not prepared to rule on the Fayette County school board's motion to dismiss the suit. Ishmael said he would issue an opinion as soon as possible...

...School board attorney John McNeil said the board was obligated by the Kentucky Education Reform Act to conduct an investigation into complaints about testing. McNeil said the defamation claim has no merit.

McNeil said there was also no reason for Allen to be named in the lawsuit because she was performing duties in good faith and in a non-malicious manner.

But Petrilli's attorney, Dale Golden, said the school board created and released the report to protect itself nine months after Petrilli was forced to leave her job. He contends that Allen was not acting in good faith when she used taxpayer money to manufacture evidence...

Capturing the Twittering Bird

Just for the record...I wanted to capture my chirps (and some very poor photography) from the Petrilli v Silberman trial on KSN&C. For those of you who didn't follow the trial that way, they are time and date stamped and read from the bottom up.

KSN&C: Enabling Reform - a response to H-L's Friday editorial on Petrilli v Silberman. http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/7:34 PM Aug 2nd from web

Was Twitter worth doing? Let us know at Kentucky School News & Commentary. http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/12:14 PM Jul 29th from mobile web

A quick note of thanks to those of you who followed me during the trial. It was an interesting experiment in instant reporting.11:30 AM Jul 29th from mobile web

Jury finds for Silberman.3:36 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Jury has reached a verdict.3:33 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

The jury has now had the case for 2 hrs and 30 min. The longer it goes...more likely the verdict favors plaintiff.3:24 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

...their own kids.2:44 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

McNeill: To side w/Plaintiffs "you have to reach the...insulting conclusion that Afr Am parents care more about Afr Am teachers than...2:44 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Just looking at the jury, one does not get the sense that they are naturally radical... by any stretch.2:30 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Golden used a jury nullification approach telling the jury they could do whatever they wanted.2:27 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

McNeill stuck close to the jury instructions...a real left brained approach. He told the jury what they couldn't do.2:26 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Reflections on the closing arguments...2:25 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Golden completes his close. Case goes to the jury.12:52 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Golden begins his close.12:04 PM Jul 28th from mobile web

Re: Jury instructions...Those must be the best possible instructions for FCPS.11:54 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Court in recess for 15 minutes. Golden to close next. Then the jury will get the case to deliberate over lunch.11:49 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

McNeill rests.11:46 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

McNeill begins close.10:47 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Wow. So the central question of the case becomes THE big question for the jury. If they believe her resignation as written...it's over.10:43 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

If no...then jury proceeds to 8 pages of instructions on race discrimination, retaliation and whistleblower claims.10:41 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

If you answer Yes...you have found for the defendants...FCPS.10:36 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

...Booker T Washington Academy on August 27, 2007?10:34 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

"Question #1 Do you believe from the evidence that the plaintiff, Peggy Petrilli, voluntarily resigned from her position as Principal of...10:33 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Jury instructions hinge on one question alone.10:30 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

After side bar..another break...McNeill prepares to close.10:27 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Testimony concluded. Next up closing arguments and jury instructions.10:21 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Golden completes his cross examination. Court in recess for 15 minutes.10:06 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Visiting Russian judges are in attendance today. Court will resume in 5 minutes.9:13 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Long debate - now @ 55 minutes - is delaying the start of today's testimony.8:56 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

KSN&C has been promised a copy of the final jury instructions when the jury goes into deliberation.8:27 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Golden: Petrilli had no bargaining power...If you're not the person holding the gun, you don't waive anything.8:24 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Ishmael: If the jury decides she voluntarily resigned, knowing her options, how is that not a waiver of any claims?8:22 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Attnys and judge debate jury instructions. The focus is on whether the jury believes Petrilli voluntarily resigned.8:21 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

All parties present. Let the wild rumpus begin.7:58 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Fearless ramblings on the outcome @ KSN&C. http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/7:57 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Getting ready for Day 8! Petrilli v Silberman. First order of business...fussing over jury instructions.7:56 AM Jul 28th from mobile web

Across town Fayette Co Board gets ready to meet.5:43 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

McNeill concludes. Golden's cross will wait until morning when court will resume.5:39 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Jury members are getting tired...checking the clock.5:34 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Alva Clark on stand....McNeill plows old ground.5:14 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Quick break. Alva Clark still on stand. If they plan to finish today...they better get a move on.4:26 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

McNeill calls Alva Clark.3:53 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Lynch chairs the Concensus Forecasting Group.3:08 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Lynch is attorney...experienced in public administration and forensic economics.3:04 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Trial resumes. McNeill calls Lawrence Lynch.3:01 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Stone excused. PM break. 3 more witnesses to go.2:30 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Golden: Would this document justify taking an adverse employment action against Peggy a year later?2:22 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Stone recounts list of parent complaints.2:05 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

Lisa Stone takes the stand as trial resumes.1:04 PM Jul 27th from mobile web

The Plan: Finish all proof today. Come back tomorrow for closing and deliberations.11:50 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Golden continues to show that whatever problems may have existed were all resolved and were not germane.11:48 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Court in recess for Lunch.11:45 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Golden begins cross of Dykes.11:10 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Kathy Dykes still on the stand.10:55 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Trial resumes10:54 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

McNeill continues to try to show that there were lots of reasons why parents were upset with Peggy that go beyond race.10:48 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

From Kathy Dykes: litany of complaints...non compliance10:35 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

..."too fast" "too focused" "left stakeholders behind" "stakeholders (PR)" "lessons learned"10:33 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Young - Notes from Petrilli interviewers: "parents left behind"..."must have PR"...10:32 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Jury in recess for 15 minutes.10:27 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

McNeill calls Sp Ed Dir Kathy Dykes.9:37 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Notes from Jess interview not shredded as usual..admitted as exhibits.9:11 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Young says Stu only relayed positive assessment of Petrilli.9:10 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Conversation with Silberman re: Petrilli suit came after Jessamine passed on her.9:09 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Young says Jess Co was concerned with circumstances surrounding BTWA from news stories.9:07 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

McNeill calls Jessamine Co Supt Lu Young.8:47 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Jury enters. Trial continues with defense case. McNeill expects to finish his part today.8:44 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Ishmael Overruling Plaintiff's motion: I'm troubled by each of those elements. I'm going to let the jury hear ...the proof on that.8:32 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Ishmaeł on Defense motion for directed verdict: Petrilli had the requsite constitutional guarantees.8:29 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Trial will proceed on 3 claims: Racial discrimination, Retaliation and whistleblower.8:26 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Judge throws out Constitutional claims.8:24 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Court is in session early. Judge expected to hear motions.8:14 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Petrilli v Silberman Day 7 coming up soon.8:04 AM Jul 27th from mobile web

Just Posted @ KSN&C: Flash Poll. The jury will find for.... Tell us what you think. http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/11:00 PM Jul 25th from web

Just Posted @ Kentucky School News & Commentary Petrilli v Silberman Day 6: http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/5:19 PM Jul 24th from web

Court in recess until Monday morning.4:32 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Jurors indicate to Judge that they all can continue to serve next week.4:31 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Plaintiff rests.4:29 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Judge says it looks like another long day Monday...possible Tuesday.4:13 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden calls Brenda Allen. Court rules Allen does not have to appear due to attorney client privilege.4:10 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Judge confers with attorneys on remainder of trial.4:08 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Silberman excused.4:07 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden: "Wasn't the goal to send Carmen & Fabio out to her house, to pressure her to resign.4:00 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden bears down on Silberman.3:57 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu: That's the bottom line on this whole situation. I did not make Peggy leave.3:39 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

"Did you throw Peggy under the bus? Stu "Oh no. Peggy made the decision to leave."3:31 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Court resumes. Stu still on the stand.3:02 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Court in recess.2:35 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

After side bar...McNeilll begins cross.1:45 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden: "Didn't you decide it would just be easier to turn your back on Peggy?" Stu: "That is just not true."1:44 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden concludes. McNeil reserves right to recall Silberman. Does not cross.1:40 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu: Peggy could have gone back to BTWA.1:39 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu is back on the stand. Lisa Stone is probably next.1:05 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Trial resumes.1:04 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

McNeilll's client is Stu but it's also the Board. Is that the thing? ? ? ?12:41 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Doesn't Stu own the privilege? Can't he waive it at will? Hummmm.12:35 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

...but he didn't say everything he wanted to citing priv. My question is....12:33 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

...attny/client priv. Stu told the jury he wanted to answer and that "it was critical." ...12:32 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Is there a lawyer in the house? Before lunch Golden asked Stu a question involving the board attorney. McNeilll cautioned Stu about ...12:30 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

This AM: Ishmael admonished attorneys "Remember Rule # 1...Attnys ask...Witnesses answer...and can explain.12:22 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu said: I knew her to be an outstanding instructional leader...had a significant issue with management...relationships12:14 PM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Court in recess until 1PM11:22 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu: Sir, There was nothing more that I wanted than for Peggy Petrilli to succeed11:17 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu on Aug 22 Mtg:I thought it was just one more thing that Peggy had gotten us into. I was there to smooth things out.11:15 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Trial resumes with Silberman back on the stand.10:43 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden adopts a more combative tone with Stu.10:35 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Court in recess for 10 minutes. Judge has conflict @ 11:30.10:32 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Stu takes the stand.9:48 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Council selection was by consensus. "We all had to agree."9:39 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

McCuley: On Council selection of new principal - Berry wanted more "diverse" candidates. Requested more from Stu.9:37 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Another juror was excused before this morning's session. Down to 12. No more alternates.9:33 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Golden calls BTWA teacher Leigh McCuley.9:07 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Court back in session.8:53 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Petrilli v Silberman Day 6...coming up.8:39 AM Jul 23rd from mobile web

Just Updated @ KSN&C: Petrilli v Silberman Day 5 http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/7:01 AM Jul 23rd from web

Court in recess until morning. Coleman excused.5:32 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Golden redirect of Coleman.5:22 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Judge announced that excused jurors brother passed away.4:57 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Jury asks for 5 minute recess. Coleman on stand.4:50 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

McNeill begins cross examination of Coleman.4:25 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Coleman: She was supposed to call...next thing I knew she had an Attorney and I was out of the loop.4:24 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Golden: Do you remember !tu makikng the decision that she had to resign or retire?...4:22 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Cranfill excused. Golden calls former FCPS dIrector Carmen Coleman.3:37 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Golden calls Calvin Cranfill. CPA.3:11 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

...If everybody is having a problem with Bob. The problem is probably Bob.3:10 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

McLaughlin testified he spoke to Petrilli about Maxwell's "Bob Principle"...3:09 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Court back in session...but giving the jury some time to regroup.3:05 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Juror became upset upon receiving some bad news related to the health of a family member and was excused.3:04 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

McNeill finishes cross. Court in recess for 15 minutes.2:45 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Court resumes with Bob McLaughlin on the stand. McNeill to begin cross examination.1:30 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Court in recess for lunch.12:00 PM Jul 22nd from mobile web

...told her to go slow...relationships first.11:55 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

McLaughlin warned Petrilli in advance old historical trust issues between BTW and FCPS, he testifies.11:54 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Golden calls Bob McLaughlin.11:16 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Jones says: Over the years...always at the top of the list was Afr Am males11:16 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Court resumes. Golden calls Cheryl Jones...by video deposition.10:48 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Re: Not liking Berry...I've been married 48 years and there have been days we didn't like each other10:46 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

...by November he had policies on discipline and committees10:44 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

On cross...Gum says he always talked with parents about out of area requests...10:43 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

...that Berry was opinionated and could fly off the handle but he never had a problem with Alva Clark10:42 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

...said that the next principal would be better off without Berrry and Clark...10:40 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Gum testified that the instructional piece was in place and he focused on relationship building10:39 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Gum excused. Court in recess for morning break.10:26 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Golden redirect. Back to McNeill.10:20 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

McNeill cross examines Gum.9:48 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Golden calls Jock Gum...followed Petrilli as interim @ BTWA8:48 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Court is in session for Day 5 Petrilli v Silberman8:44 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Also posted: Did the Jury Buy Buddy? http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/8:34 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Posted at KSN&C: Petrilli v Silberman Day 4 http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/8:32 AM Jul 22nd from mobile web

Wiseman concludes and court is in recess until 8:45 tomorrow morning.5:16 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Wiseman is now Asst Supt in Paris.4:54 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Connor excused. FCPS DPP Gary Wiseman called.4:53 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Golden completes direct...McNeill begins cross.4:24 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Berry excused. Golden calls Barbara Conner...FCPS civil rigths compliance officer.4:11 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Court resumes with Jessica Berry still on the stand. Berry says teachers complained about the low teacher retention rate...3:08 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Court in recess for 15 minutes.2:43 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

...saw administrators in room with tests..looked like erase marks...2:40 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Berry: It was my understanding admin were not supposed to be in contact with tests.2:39 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

...one by one, while Berry testifies who offered each complaint.2:37 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

McNeill is working Berry through the 2 1/2 page list of complaints from Aug 22 mtg.2:35 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

BOE member Becky Sagan is in the gallery this PM.2:31 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

McNeill cross examines Berry. Berry is very matter of fact with both Golden and McNeill.2:11 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Trial resumes. Golden calls Jessica Berry.1:21 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

will the jury see him as too smooth?1:20 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

...on the stand, he presented himself as a smooth individual...crafting his answers.1:20 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Thoughts on Clark: Much of Petrilli's case, it seems to me, depends on the jury seeing Clark as someone who was reacting from anger...1:18 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Afternoon line up includes Jessica Berry, Barbara Connor, Jock Gum, with Gary Wiseman on hold.12:09 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

McNeill concludes cross examination.12:04 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

Judge adds Twitter to his list of jury admonitions as court is in recess for lunch.12:03 PM Jul 21st from mobile web

McNeill begins cross examination of Buddy Clark.11:13 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Clark testifies has had heard of people threatening to go to the media...but not picketing.11:04 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Court resumes...Clark still on the stand.10:57 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Did Clark threaten FCPS with fed suit? Clark: It was an option but we didn't want it..."10:55 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

According to Buddy Clark he didn' have anything to do with letters written to Silberman' except for the actual language.10:32 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Golden continues to grill Clark.10:03 AM Jul 21st from mobile web
Golden calls Buddy Clark.8:56 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Amanda Main Ferguson is back for more.8:46 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Court in session. FCPS COO Mary Browning is in the house.8:45 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Petrilli v Silberman Day 4 coming up in a few minutes. Barbara Conner is in the hallway.8:27 AM Jul 21st from mobile web

Golden conclues. Court in recess until morning. Judge warns...trial is moving slower than anticipated.5:24 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

McNeill concludes. Golden redirect.5:17 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

McNeill continues his cross examination of Peggy Petrilli.3:38 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Court resumes3:33 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Walther testified the he advised Petrilli that cost of defending would be $25 K + and that's only through hearing level.3:33 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Walther says district investigations typically are concluded within 20 days.3:30 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Walther excused. Court takes 15 min recess.3:08 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Walther explains what it takes for a principal , non-KEA, to sue while unemployed. No income. High fees.2:11 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Weinberg: It was very obvious to me that Jessica Berry and the Clarks wanted an Afr Am principal1:55 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Weinberg says Stu threw Peggy under the bus.1:53 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

After cross - Weinberg excused. Golden calls Attny Jeff Walther.1:51 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

After side bar judge announces the court is going to take 2 witnesses out of order. Golden calls Alice Weinberg.1:31 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

I get the feeling McNeill is just warming up...expect him to dominate much of the afternoon1:25 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Court resumes with Petrilli back on the stand for cross examination from McNeill1:21 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

By law, it was the council, not Silberman, that chose the permanent replacement, a black female.1:04 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

McNeill effectively argues that when Silberman chose the interim replacement it was a white male.1:02 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Golden must prove that"Petrilli was replaced by a person of a different race"1:01 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

In this morning's cross, McNeill took dead aim at the racial discrimination charge.1:00 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Court in lunch recess....McNeill continued to score points related to the circumstances surrounding resignation.12:02 PM Jul 20th from mobile web

Court resumes10:38 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

Shout out to FCPS BOE member Amanda Main Ferguson who is in attendance.10:17 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

McNeill pounds on the fact that none of Petrilli's present claims came up in her resignation letter or efforts to get job in Jessamine Co10:07 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

...shows effective coaching.10:05 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

Petrilli keeps cool and faces jury not McNeill despite his suggestion to the contrary.10:04 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

Petrilli under fire as McNeill tries to shake her testimony.10:03 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

Here come da Judge.8:49 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

McNeill will try to shake Petrilli's characterization of events in front of the jury.8:48 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

The case will resume with John McNeill's cross-examination of Peggy Petrilli. The show's about to begin.8:47 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

Petrilli v Silberman Day 3 is about to begin.8:46 AM Jul 20th from mobile web

Just Posted: "Instructions for the Jury" at Kentucky School News & Commentary. http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/7:42 AM Jul 19th from web

Just Posted: Stu's Warrior @ KSN&C http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/9:09 AM Jul 18th from web

Just posted @ KSN&C Petrilli v Silberman Day 2...http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/12:13 PM Jul 17th from mobile web

Holliday's pay $225,000; starts Aug 59:57 AM Jul 17th from mobile web

Find lots of background info on new Ed Commish Holliday @ Kentucky School News & Commentary9:42 AM Jul 17th from mobile web

Holliday Selected as Education Commissioner9:30 AM Jul 17th from mobile web

New Commish Expected this AM. Anybody seen Terry at the Holliday Inn? When I hear from Lisa Gross, Ill give a chirp.8:30 AM Jul 17th from mobile web

Just Posted @ KSN&C...HE SAID. http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/7:41 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Court in recess until Monday morning @ 8:45.4:08 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Golden finishes with Petrilli.4:06 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Aug 26 HL says you were leaving BTWA. Did you ever say that? Petrill: "No"3:23 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Judge mildly fusses at attorneys due to # of objections & side bars.3:07 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

BOE member Becky Sagan is in the house.3:06 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Petrilli: He was very clear, emphatic, I could resign or retire.3:06 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Petrill: Stu told me he had never seen such a hostile parent meeting as the one on Aug22, 20073:04 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Lots of objectioms...side bars. When Petrilli says "secret meeting" McNeill objects.3:03 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Court back in session. Petrilli still on stand.2:36 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

At the break Judge Ishmael made a comment that led me to believe he has discovered "those things called blogs."2:30 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Court in recess with Petrilli still on stand. Golden is working through documents: 10 exhibits so far.2:15 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Petrilli takes the stand.12:50 PM Jul 16th from mobile web

Ishmael has Grand Jury hearing. Jury doesn't want Petrill testimoný broken up, so court will recess until 12:4511:06 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

McNeill ends opening statement. Golden calls 1st witness...Peggy Petrilli11:02 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

Court back in session. McNeill to open for defense.10:03 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

Golden concludes opening. Court in recess for 15 minutes.9:44 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

For Goldens and outline of Golden's opening see: http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/9:23 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

Golden opening statement9:01 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

Day 2: Petrilli v Silberman -Trail Begins8:55 AM Jul 16th from mobile web

Judge reviewed rules for the courtroom concerning cameras and audio recording...and adjourned for the day.4:34 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

On trial dates judge anticipates closing each day in the 4:30-5:00 range.4:28 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Tomorrow the trial will shift to Courtroom F...8:45am4:26 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Jury seated...5 men, 9 women; 3 blacks, 11 whites4:19 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge says, we'll get our jury and call it a day4:15 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

...says "This is a very unusual case...highly unusual circumstances...we're trying to do everything right4:14 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge apologizes to jury for long wait and long day.4:12 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Court back in session. Judge meets w/ attnys in sidebar.3:52 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

"I am embarassed by this but I assure you it is necessary, says judge.3:21 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

This break is for attorneys to research an important legal issue.3:20 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

After a long side bar with attorneys, Ishmael calls for antoher 15 minute break.3:19 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Sorry. No video of opening arguments as planned.2:53 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Had a nice chat with the judge during break...directed not to record audio...limited to 1 pic per witness2:51 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Court in recess for 15 minutes2:33 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Final juror candidate seated...is NOT a teacher...2:32 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

McNeill finishes voir dire. Another sidebar2:09 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

McNeill voir dire begins1:49 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Golden does not ask his racial discrimination question again.1:28 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Court back in session. Golden continues questioning.1:27 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Waitin' for the judge1:20 PM Jul 15th from mobile web

Recess until 1:1511:57 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Golden questions jurors11:57 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge intros Silberman and defense attorneys11:20 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge intros Petrilli and attnys.11:19 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Juror w/5 mo old is excused11:17 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Court resumes11:14 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

15 minute recess10:53 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge admonishes jury not to read about case, watch TV, read paper, look up on Internet10:53 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

One juror excused and replaced10:48 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

6 have...and one potential juror is reading today's H-L on the front row.10:30 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Anybody heard about or read about, or know about the case?10:28 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

...any language concerns?10:26 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Ishmael_"We'll be conducting the case in good ol' Kentucky English...10:25 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Lafayette tchr excused and replaced10:23 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Replacement jurors called...one teaches @ Lafayette10:12 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Five more excused for other reasons10:05 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Four juror candidates w/FCPS connections excused9:57 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Side bar...Attorneys question individual juror candidates9:37 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Ishmael...Do you think that if you voted against bd you would lose job?9:31 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

10 in pool have connections with FCPS9:29 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge questions jury pool9:28 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

08-CI-608 begins9:06 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Judge James Ishmael presiding Silberman and Petrilli present9:04 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Petrilli v Silberman begins9:03 AM Jul 15th from mobile web

Testing this device8:23 PM Jul 11th from mobile web

Petrilli v Silberman begins next Wednesday. I am considering Twittering the Trial. Good idea? Respond: http://theprincipal.blogspot.com/10:06 AM Jul 11th from web