Editor,
It is astounding that top administration in Raymond can deny a child an appropriate program to meet that child’s individual needs; and ignore a Corrective Action Plan ruling by the Maine Department of Education.
Nearly 20 percent of the population has a reading disability. Statistics show that when early intervention is received using a scientific, research-based program that these children do very well in school and every other aspect of their lives.
We have found that in working with Raymond School District that they do not have any teachers in the Special Education Department, certified in any reading program, particularly the Wilson Reading Program, a program they purport to be using. Through the admission of one of their staff members who recently has stated, “I don’t have the specific certification.”
Raymond School District has been made aware on several occasions of a free certification reading program, that is a scientific-researched based program, provided by The Masonic Learning Center in Portland, Maine utilizing the Orton-Gillingham Method; but as of today, have chosen not to participate.
It is a Superintendent’s responsibility to make sure that their staff are highly qualified and have the proper training in place to meet the individual needs of our children. The Raymond community has been misled. Children who have a reading disability have not been receiving a scientific research-based reading program.
It was not until the State of Maine’s Department of Education found Raymond School District in violation of denying a child a free and appropriate public education that they have recently signed up five of their teachers to receive training in June for Lindamood Bell and Seeing Stars, a five-day intensive workshop to be held in Wells, a scientific research-based reading program of which no certification is received.
We are fortunate to have wonderful teachers and staff in Raymond, who are dedicated and continue to do a great job with our children, it is unfortunate that Superintendent Sandra Caldwell does not appear to have that same dedication for the children of Raymond. It is my opinion, that Ms. Caldwell, who is not a Raymond resident, would rather spend taxpayers’ money on legal fees to deny providing appropriate services to the children of Raymond. It is alleged that Superintendent Caldwell has used threats in order to prevent staff from voicing their concerns to the community in a public forum or otherwise for fear of repercussions, and in fact has allegedly stated that “if you don’t like it, leave.” Perhaps it is time for Sandra Caldwell to leave.
The School Board needs to know that Superintendent Sandra Caldwell reports to you. As a board member you have the right to ask questions and have those questions responded to. The community has put their faith in you by voting you into this position of importance. You need to know that you do play an important role in the checks and balances that direct how top school administration is leading this community and to ensure that all students have the opportunity to receive an appropriate education whether it be special education, gifted and talented or the mainstream classroom; every student deserves the same opportunity.
Parents must advocate for their children; you are the only voice they have. Ask questions, get involved and, more importantly, find out the facts about the programming your child is receiving. We did and were shocked at what we learned.
Sharon Lloy
Raymond
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