Will Dr. Eastwood Allow the Building of the New Elementary School ?

Although a decision on the Article 78 case is expected soon, many people in the district are still confused about the nature of this legal action, and its implications for the building of a new elementary school. The issue being decided by the court is whether or not the school district may legally contribute funds for capital improvements which are not on school property.

In this matter, the city is requesting funds for the improvement of the sewer line which will service the new school. The district asserts that the State Education Department prohibits this type of off site expenditure. The city contends that the Middletown school district and other school districts in the state have contributed to off site projects in the past. It needs to be pointed out that the public will pay regardless of which side wins in court. Since the district comprises more than the city of Middletown, either only the people of Middletown will pay in their city taxes, or all the people in the school district will pay in their school taxes. After deciding this issue on principle, any actual cost to the district will be determined.

In order to facilitate the building of the school, the city has already made a generous settlement offer to the district. If the school district will abide by the court's decision, the city immediately will grant a building permit. Dr. Eastwood has refused to accept this offer, has refused negotiations with the city, and has threatened not to build the new school. As in other matters, even when the needs of our students are at stake, Dr Eastwood appears to be inflexible. Rather, he has chosen to insult the Mayor and city government, and accused them of holding to district hostage. Our concern here at inside Middletown schools is the extent to which Dr. Eastwood will go in order to get his way, and whether or not the needs of our students will be be more important to him than his ego.

Currently, the construction bid have been extended until the end of January. With Dr. Eastwood's support from the majority of the board, the fear is whether or not he will abide by, or appeal the court's decision. His decision to appeal could put the building of the new school in jeopardy. By his refusal not to accept the city's settlement offer, it appears that Dr. Eastwood has already decided to appeal. There are also rumors that Dr Eastwood's fight with the city is a smoke screen for not building the school and for blaming the Mayor and the city. This rumor is based on the suspicion that the district may not have the funds necessary to build the new school. We hope these rumors are false.

Application of the Term Fascist to the Middletown School District

At the November 4th meeting of the Board of Education, the behavior of Mr. Geiger and and Dr. Eastwood was shocking, disturbing, and indicative of a general pattern of behavior. On several occasions he prohibited Mrs. Isseks and Mr. Paul from asking questions. In the process, he both insulted and denigrated them for the nature, and appropriateness of their questions. His response to their asking of probing questions is nothing new, and has been the subject of previous blogs. Mr. Geiger, Dr.Eastwood, and the board majority react aggressively, reflexively, and with hostility to all individuals who question or challenge the image and propaganda promulgated by the district.

The public may remember when Mr. Geiger prevented the Mayor from speaking at a board meeting, and he prohibited a board member from another district form speaking. At that time, Mr. Geiger and Dr. Eastwood had this individual arrested for trespassing, and they both currently are being sued in Federal Court over this incident On several occasions, in the name of maintaining order, Mr. Geiger has prohibited Mrs. Isseks, Dr. Mauro, and Mr. Paul from asking pertinent and relevant questions. At the same time, he does not inhibit his fellow members of the board majority from interjecting statements and asking questions. In sum, all these observations brings us to only one conclusion i.e. Mr. Geiger, Dr. Eastwood, and the board majority are suppressing dissent, and unwanted probing questions.

As part of its definition of Fascism, Webster includes these statements in its definition -

... a tendency toward or actual exercise of strong autocratic or dictatorial control...
... social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition...

Using this description of fascism, and from the information the public already has about the district, we will leave it to our readers to determine whether or not the term fascist is appropriately applied to the district.

Possible motivations of Eastwood supporters

Many loyal viewers have been e-mailing "Inside Middletown Schools" asking what the possible motivations of Dr. Eastwood supporters could be. Some say that the actions and behaviors of people like Edwin Estrada are bazaar and to quote one email "nuts." "Inside Middletown Schools" has been asking the same questions and here's the story you've all been waiting for.

Board President Will Geiger - If anyone has followed the history of this school board, you would know that Mr Geiger has not always been a staunch supporter of Dr. Eastwood. In fact, the two of them would have knock out, drag out fights in public, with Geiger screaming across the room with insults towards Eastwood. Now that has seemed to cease and the two are best of friends. Possible motivation: Geiger's wife recently got a cushy promotion with more money and clout.

Board Vice-President Linda Knapp - If anyone has followed the history of this school board, you would know that Linda Knapp doesn't often seem to know what she's talking about. That is...until one of her colleagues speaks first, then she follows suite. No one really knows what her true motivation is, but we know that she recently got the food court stand named after her! That should make her proud.

Edwin Estrada - First off, what a nut! If you want to know what the superintendent is thinking, just ask Estrada. Where you see one, you see the other. But on a more serious note, Mr. Estrada seriously could use psychological help. He rants, raves, shouts, yells, screams, kicks, rattles -- all in an effort to get his way. He can only get along with people who agree with him. Possible motivation: (1) Extra district attention for his children (2) Stature in the community and (3)increased name recognition for his employer, Orange County Trust Bank.

If you have any suggestions of your own and wish to submit them to "Inside Middletown Schools" please do so by sending them to insidemiddletown@yahoo.com. If your comments past muster they will be posted to the site.

Mayor's Statement About the Sewer Issue

WELCOME ALL

WE ARE HERE TODAY BECAUSE DR. EASTWOOD AND THE MIDDLETOWN SCHOOL BOARD FILED AN ARTICLE 78 COURT CASE AGAINST THE CITY INVOLVING THE SEWER LINE SERVING THE NEW CHORLEY SCHOOL.

THEY CHOSE THE ROUTE OF LITIGATION WHILE WE WERE IN THE MIDDLE OF NEGOTIATIONS. I FELT WE WERE MAKING TREMENDOUS PROGRESS WITH THE STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT THROUGH THE EFFORTS OF ASSEMBLYWOMAN GUNTHER. IT WAS QUITE OBVIOUS TO ME THAT IF WE CONTINUED TO TALK TO EACH OTHER, THIS ISSUE WOULD HAVE BEEN RESOLVED BY NOW.

IN FACT, THE CITY MADE SEVERAL OFFERS THROUGHOUT THE EARLY TALKS. ONE OF THOSE OFFERS WAS TO JOINTLY PURSUE STATE FUNDING. IF SUCCESSFUL, THE CITY, RECOGNIZING THE LONG TERM BENEFIT TO OUR CITY RESIDENTS, WOULD PAY THE SCHOOL’S LOCAL SHARE OF ANY STATE FUNDING. YOU CANNOT BE ANY MORE REASONABLE THEN THAT.

I BELIEVE WHAT IS REALLY AT STAKE HERE IS THE RIGHT TO ASK QUESTIONS, TO QUESTION OUR BOARD OF EDUCATION AND SUPERINTENDENT AND RECEIVE HONEST ANSWERS.

WE CAN DISAGREE WITH THE BOARD, BUT THAT DISAGREEMENT BY AN INDIVIDUAL OR A MUNICIPALITY SHOULD NOT BE MET WITH THE SCHOOL DISTRICT TRYING TO DESTROY THE PERSON WHO DISAGREES WITH THEM, USING SCHOOL RESOURCES, TAXPAYER FUNDS, MAILINGS ETC.

THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WHEN THE MAYOR AND SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT DISAGREE, THAT THIS DISCUSSION EVOLVES INTO NAME CALLING, FALSE, MISLEADING MAILINGS, CRIES FROM DR. EASTWOOD THAT WE ARE “HOLDING THE CHILDREN HOSTAGE” AND OTHER RHETORIC THAT HAS TAKEN PLACE ON THIS ISSUE.

AS YOU READ OUR RESPONSE PAPERS, YOU WILL FIND THAT THE DISTRICT’S SUPPORTING PAPERS ARE RIFE WITH FALSE OR MISLEADING FACTUAL ASSERTIONS AND THEIR LEGAL ARGUMENTS ARE MERITLESS, IN SOME PARTS ACTUALLY FRIVOLOUS.

AGAIN, OUR RESIDENTS HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO QUESTION ACTIONS BY THE BOARD OF EDUCATION, EITHER INDIVIDUALLY OR THROUGH THEIR ELECTED OFFICIALS.

WE HAVE A HISTORY IN THIS COMMUNITY OF BOARDS OF ED TELLING US THAT BUILDINGS ARE NO LONGER SUITABLE FOR SCHOOLS AFTER SPENDING MILLIONS OF DOLLARS TO RENOVATE THEM. FOR EXAMPLE, LIBERTY ST., ALBERT ST., ACADEMY AVENUE, ALL SCHOOL DISTRICT BUILDINGS THAT THE PUBLIC WAS TOLD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, YET TO THIS DAY AND AFTER SPENDING MILLIONS, THEY CONTINUE TO OPERATE AS SCHOOLS.

IN THIS CASE, IN A DISTRICT THAT HAS IN EXCESS OF 40,000 RESIDENTS AND MORE THEN 15,000 VOTERS, AROUND 700 VOTED ON THE REFERENDUM. WHY? IT WAS HELD A WEEK BEFORE CHRISTMAS IN 2008! THIS TOO IS WRONG.

WE NEED TRANSPARENCY AND TRUTH IN THIS PROCESS AND WE ARE NOT GETTING IT HERE FROM DR. EASTWOOD OR THE BOARD.

OUR PAPERS CLEARLY SHOW THAT DR. EASTWOOD IS NOT BEING TRUTHFUL TO THE DISTRICT AND HIS VERY OWN BOARD IN MANY AREAS.

WE SHOW EVIDENCE THAT WHILE DENYING TRUMAN MOON IS CLOSING AS AN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, DR. EASTWOOD SUBMITTED DOCUMENTATION TO THE COURT AND THE STATE INDICATING IN HIS OWN WORDS THAT THE SIZE OF THE NEW SCHOOL IS NECESSARY BECAUSE THE NEW SCHOOL WILL COMBINE THE OLD CHORLEY AND THE TRUMAN MOON POPULATIONS.

ALSO, WHILE THE CITY TAKES NO POSITION ON THE DEMOLITION OF CHORLEY, WE POINT OUT THAT THE STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT IS NOT THE ONLY STATE AGENCY TO WHOM EASTWOOD HAS TOLD ONE THING AND THEN TOLD THE PUBLIC AND HIS BOARD JUST THE OPPOSITE. WE SUPPLY DOCUMENTATION OF CORRESPONDENCE WITH NYS OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND VIDEO RECORDINGS OF PUBLIC BOARD MEETINGS FOR THE PUBLIC AND BOARD TO COMPARE.

WE HAVE VIDEO OF DR. EASTWOOD STATING VERY LOUDLY TO THE BOARD THAT THE FIRST TIME HE HEARD ABOUT THE SEWER ISSUE IS WHEN I CAME TO THE BOARD MEETING IN APRIL OF 2010. THIS IS NOT TRUE.

WE SUPPLY A VIDEO OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT’S ARCHITECT STATING THAT MR. TAWIL, DPW COMMISSIONER, NOTIFIED THE DISTRICT IN OCTOBER, 2008 OF THE SEWER PROBLEM. WE PROVIDE E MAILS INTO MARCH OF 2010 ADVISING THE DISTRICT THAT THE DESIGN ENGINEER HAS YET TO MEET WITH THE CITY ENGINEER TO REVIEW PLANS.

WE DOCUMENT CLEARLY THAT IN OCTOBER OF 2008, THE CITY REQUESTED PROJECTED WATER USAGE FOR THE PROJECT. THIS WOULD BE USED TO EVALUATE SEWER REQUIRMENTS. THIS WAS NEVER PROVIDED TO THE CITY UNTIL DECEMBER OF 2009. THE DISTRICT HAS NEVER GIVEN AN EXPLANATION WHY THEY WAITED SO LONG. YET, DR. EASTWOOD CLAIMS PUBLICLY THAT THE CITY IS DELAYING THE NEW SCHOOL.

THROUGHOUT OUR LEGAL RESPONSE PAPERS, YOU WILL FIND MANY MORE EXAMPLES OF DR. EASTWOOD SAYING ONE THING TO THE STATE AND ANOTHER TO THE BOARD OR PUBLIC.

DESPITE ALL OF THIS, I CONTINUED TO REQUEST MEETINGS WITH THE DR. EASTWOOD AND THE BOARD IN HOPES OF RESOLVING THIS ISSUE. THE RESPONSE WAS CLEARLY NO!

I ATTENDED BOARD MEETINGS, ONLY TO HAVE MY MICROPHONE SHUT OFF.

WE HAD ONE VERY BRIEF MEETING WHEN WE EXCHANGED DOCUMENTS ON THE CASE. THE OTHER MEETING WAS HELD JUNE 30, IN ALBANY WITH ASSEMBLYWOMAN GUNTHER AND THE DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION FACILITIES, MR. CHARLES SZUBERLA.

I FOUND THE MEETING TO BE VERY PRODUCTIVE AND HOPEFUL. THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE ASSEMBLY EDUCATION COMMITTEE, ASSEMBLYWOMAN NOLAN, ATTENDED BRIEFLY AND OFFERED HER SUPPORT TO FINDING A RESOLUTION.

WE, THE CITY AND DISTRICT, HAD AN OPPORTUNITY FOR STATE FUNDING ON THIS PROJECT. GUNTHER AND SZUBERLA REQUESTED MORE DETAILED COST ESTIMATES TO MOVE THE PROCESS ALONG IN A POSITIVE MANNER.

THAT NIGHT, THE CITY COMMON COUNCIL PASSED A UNANIMOUS RESOLUTION OFFERING TO SHARE THE COST OF THE EVALUATION WITH THE DISTRICT IN HOPES OF EXPEDITING THE STATE AID. DR. EASTWOOD AND THE DISTRICT SAID NO.

WE OFFERED TO BOND THE PROJECT FOR THEM TO AVOID DELAYS, THEY SAID NO.

WE OFFERED TO SHARE THE COST WITH THEM ON A 50 / 50 BASIS, AGAIN THE DISTRICT SAID NO.

WE MADE OTHER OFFERS OF SETTLEMENT THAT INCLUDED PAYING THE DISTRICT’S ENTIRE LOCAL SHARE OF THE PROJECT, THEY SAID NO.

RATHER THEN NEGOTIATE; THE DISTRICT WENT ON A PUBLIC RELATIONS SMEAR CAMPAIGN, USING TAXPAYER DOLLARS.

AS WE SHOW IN OUR PAPERS, THESE ACTIONS ARE MORE THEN A DISAGREEMENT AMONG ELECTED OFFICIALS.

FIRST OF ALL, THE COST PRODUCING AND MAILING THESE MUDSLINGING, MISLEADING DOCUMENTS PROBABLY EXCEEDED THE COST OF THE DISTRICT’S SHARE OF THE SEWER EVALUATION.

IT IS CLEAR THAT THE INTENT OF THE DISTRICT UTILIZING OUT OF CONTEXT QUOTATIONS IN THE TAXPAYER FUNDED MAILINGS WAS TO DECEIVE THE PUBLIC.

ONE MAILED DOCUMENT CONTAINED THE NAMES OF 8 BOARD MEMBERS PRINTED ON THE BACK.

I WOULD HOPE THAT AFTER WATCHING THE VIDEO TAPE AND COMPARING THE MAILING TO THE TRANSCRIPT PROVIDED, DR. EASTWOOD AND THE BOARD WOULD CLARIFY THAT THESE COMMENTS IN THE MAILING WERE INAPPROPIATE.

WHOEVER CHOSE TO QUOTE ME OR MISLEAD OUR PUBLIC AND USE TAXPAYER DOLLARS TO SEND IT OUT IS WRONG.

WITHOUT RETRACTION BY DR. EASTWOOD, THE BOARD AS A GROUP OR INDIVDUALLY,
THEIR FAILURE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THIS TYPE OF BEHAVIOR WOULD CONSTITUTE PROTECTING A “LIAR OUT OF CONTROL.”

THAT PERSON SHOULD BE IDENTIFIED AND REPRIMANDED FOR ABUSING TAXPAYER DOLLARS.

WE HAVE PROVIDED A TRANSCRIPT AND VIDEOTAPE OF MY COMMENTS. YOU BE THE JUDGE AFTER REVIEWING THEM.

IF THAT WASN’T ENOUGH, THEY DID A SECOND MAILING WHICH CONTAINED SEVERAL FALSE STATEMENTS.

THEY CLAIM THE CITY DOESN’T HAVE ENGINEERING REPORTS. WE PROVIDED THE REPORTS TO THE DISTRICT LONG BEFORE THE LAWSUIT WAS FILED.

THEY CLAIM THAT CITY NEVER USED ITS SEWER CAMERAS TO INSPECT THE LINE CONDITION. NOT TRUE. WE SUPPLIED THE PICTURE OF THIS LINE TO THE COURT.

THEY COMMENT THAT THE CITY PREVIOUSLY APPROVED THIS PROJECT. NOT TRUE. THE CITY APPROVED ONLY THE SUBDIVISION IN 2009 AND REQUESTED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM THE DISTRICT.

IT IS NOT PRODUCTIVE FOR THE CITY AND SCHOOL DISTRICT TO BE ENGAGED IN THIS SUIT. AS JOHN PERRINO STATED DURING ONE OF THE BOARD DISCUSSIONS, THE CITY NEEDS A GOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE DISTRICT NEEDS A VIABLE CITY. WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER.

WE CAN DISAGREE, BUT WE SHOULD DO SO RESPECTFULLY AND HONESTLY.

OUR POSITION IS THIS IS AN ISSUE OF FAIRNESS. THE MAKE UP OF THE DISTRICT IS THE CITY IS ONLY 50% OF THE DISTRICT. BY SHIFTING THE COST OF THIS SEWER LINE TO THE CITY, 50% OF THE DISTRICT WOULD BE PAYING FOR 100% OF THE COST.

WE PROVIDED SEVERAL CASES STATEWIDE WHERE THIS TYPE OF COOPERATION BETWEEN SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND MUNICIPALITIES HAVE TAKEN PLACE. IT IS CLEARLY LEGAL AND WE DEMONSTRATE THIS TO THE COURT.

WE STILL HAVE TIME TO RESOLVE THIS ISSUE WITHOUT LITIGATION. AFTER VIEWING BOTH SIDES OF THE DISAGREEMENT, I CAN ASSURE THE BOARD OF EDUCATION THAT THE CITY WOULD LIKE TO SETTLE THIS MATTER SO WE CAN JOIN HANDS AND WORK TOGETHER TO BRING ABOUT A NEW SCHOOL AT CHORLEY.

NOW WE’RE UP TO DATE ON THE ARTICLE 78 AND THE CITY RESPONSE. WE WILL BE POSTING ON OUR WEBSITE THE DISTRICT’S CLAIM AND OUR RESPONSE FOR PUBLIC REVIEW.

ANY PERSON WHO WOULD LIKE IT E MAILED TO THEM, PLEASE SUBMIT A REQUEST TO MAYORDESTEFANO@YAHOO.COM. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO REVIEW A HARD COPY OF THE PAPERS AND WATCH THE VIDEO, YOU CAN DO SO IN MY OFFICE DURING REGULAR BUSINESS HOURS.

QUESTIONS ?

Dr. Mauro offers public support to Mayor

Dear Mayor DeStefano:

I am sure you viewed the end of last nigh'ts board meeting, and saw both Mr. Geiger and Dr. Eastwood prohibited my ability to ask about the changes in the student to teacher ratio in the high school. This figure is a good indicator of school crowding. Rather than answer my question, Mr. Geiger tried to silence me and give Dr Eastwood the last word on the topic. Even in his obfuscating reply to my question, Dr. Eastwood never gave the changes in the teacher to student ratio in the high school for the past few years. Instead, Mr. Geiger, Mr. Estrada and Dr. Eastwood tried to characterize me in the eyes of the public as merely a disruptive board member. These attempts at silencing freedom of speech are neither nothing new, nor confined only to me. I remember when they would not allow you to speak about the PLA issue at a board meeting, and you are aware of their federal lawsuit with Mr. Hoefer. By silencing us, Mr. Geiger and Dr. Eastwood are denying the the public their right to know, and are taking away our freedom of speech.

I like many people in the area are well aware of the propaganda campaign of misinformation Dr. Eastwood has waged against you and the city government over the sewer issue. From my own dealings with Dr. Eastwood, I neither believe nor trust him. With his majority of lackeys on the board, it is unlikely that the board will deviate from his position on the current sewer issue. Although I am well aware of how Dr. Eastwood and other board members have damaged my public reputation, for what it is worth, I would like to offer you my confidence and support as mayor.

Please have my comments circulated within the city government.

Thank you.

Regards,

Dr. Nicholas A. Mauro

Can District afford to build new school?

Recently, it has come to our attention here at "Inside Middletown Schools" that there may be an alternative reason why Dr. Eastwood may be so resistant to a compromise.

It has been suggested that the district currently may not have enough money to build the new school in its planned form, and that Dr Eastwood may be trying to scapegoat and blame to Mayor for the district's inability to build the new school.

Let's also remember that Dr. Eastwood stated in September that the new school would not be built unless we break ground this month. Why the deadline? Why is he so quick to give up? We will investigate this rumor. Stay tuned.

Is "Big Brother" Going to Prevent the Building of Our Elementary School ?‏

Recently, we turned on Ch 20 and saw and heard the enlarged image of Dr. Eastwood presenting a monologue to the public and school district. We also are aware that this message had been broadcast into all the school rooms of the district. Dr Eastwood's image immediately invoked memories of the movie based on Orwell's novel "l984". How similar Dr. Eastwood's image was to that of Orwell's character "Big Brother". For those of you who do not remember the movie or book, "1984" is about the the operation of a totalitarian state in which all must conform and follow the dictates of "Big Brother".

The suppression of freedom of speech at meetings, the mindless approval of the board majority to Dr. Eastwood's dictates, and the dictatorial management of the district by Dr. Eastwood are all topics which have have been raised in past blogs, in the media, and at board meetings. There is no reason here for further elaboration. However, when these factors prevent the starting of construction on our new elementary school, something further must be said.

The public has never been given a legal analysis of why the settlement offer of the city is illegal. No money is changing hands, and the the final outcome will be predicated on the courts decision. Where is the illegality? Rather , it appears that the district's decision is based more on Dr. Eastwood saving face, and his inability to compromise. As usual, it is Dr. Eastwood's way or the highway. Let's not forget, it was Dr. Eastwood who pushed the board into the Article 78, and if the district loses in court, it will be his responsibility.

It is up to the public now to demand that Dr. Eastwood present for examination all the legal reasons why the district can not accept the Mayor's settlement offer. The mere statement that he is acting on the advise of district's attorney is not enough. This building belongs to the district and is more important than the ego of any one man.

Eastwood caught in lie over closing of Truman Moon

Documents show Truman Moon will close, despite Eastwood remarks to the contrary

In recent remarks, Dr. Eastwood has spoken out against those who say that Truman Moon will be closing. He called the attacks unwarranted and unfounded. Then he called on the "attackers" to produce the documents supporting their accusations. Dr. Eastwood will soon learn that when you call on "Inside Middletown Schools" to produce evidence, that's exactly what you'll get.

In documents exclusively obtained by "Inside Middletown Schools," we are prepared to show you papers that were submitted to the state education department, which clarified in great detail, the reasoning for why the new elementary school needed to be built.

It states, "The new elementary school will be approximately 170,000 square feet and will hold approximately 1,200 students and appropriate faculty. The school will combine the population at the Truman Moon and Chorley Elementary Schools".

There's nothing ambiguous about that, folks!

Now if Dr. Eastwood is claiming that Truman Moon will not be closing, is he also willing to state that Truman Moon will remain an elementary school?

The Truth About The Current Sewer Situation‏

Once again, at the Sept 2nd board of education meeting, Dr Eastwood attempted to portray himself as the defender of the district's children, and the protector of the district from potential legal action. This self serving characterization of himself is ridiculous and a gross exaggeration of the situation. Currently, this issue is before the courts in an article 78, and they will decided the legal aspects of this dispute. Dr. Eastwood's meeting comments appear to be nothing more than a desperate attempt to bolster and defend his image in the eyes of the public. Let's look at the facts.

The cost for the improved sewer will be less than 2% of the total cost of the building, and will come from the same source. Namely, the local taxpayers. The cost will come from either Middletown's city taxes or district school taxes. This point has already been made by the press, and at September 2nd board meeting. If the district loses the case, the legal question of whether or not the district may pay for the sewer improvements will be answered. The district can be pay its fair share for these improvements, and the school can be built. Conversely, if the city loses , the cost can be paid from city taxes. There is no requirement that this issue be appealed by either side. Regardless, local taxpayer will pay for these improvements.

In Dr. Eastwood's resent tirades, the only thing he appears to be defending is his past evaluation of the sewer situation, and his past comments and behavior towards the Mayor. For him to use the construction of this new school as a pawn in this depute, is inappropriate.

Response to Eastwoods Behavior at Board Meeting

To the Middletown community,

I was outraged at Dr. Eastwood's unwarranted and vicious attacks upon the Mayor and myself during the September 2nd meeting of the Board of Education. After the Record's editorial, one would have thought that he would have tempered his remarks. Although he seemed to be able to control his temper earlier in the evening, his final remarks were an unwarranted angry attack upon the Mayor and myself. It appears to me that Ken has a problem with anyone who offers a difference of opinion, or introduces issues not on his personal agenda. Lets not forget, after the initiation of the article 78, it was Dr. Eastwood who started the verbal battle with the Mayor. He accused him of being opposed to the needs of our children. I would like to thank Ken for associating me with the Mayor rather than with himself. Unlike him, we are both life long residents of the city, and our families go back for generations in this area. Since Ken is a very new resident in Middletown, I find it perplexing and presumptuous that he would assume a greater commitment to the needs of our children than us. Moreover, unlike him, we both have been elected to represent the citizens of Middletown.

In Dr Eastwood's tirades, two issues need to be clarified. First, his accusation that I stated a rumor about mold in Chorley. My first email on the subject was a request for an examination of the building. I had heard conflicting comments, and wanted the issue investigated. A copy of this email was also sent to the mayor. Upon this request, I was immediately attack by Dr. Eastwood, and even threatened with legal action. Rather than dealing immediately with this issue, he only had an examination done for mold after the State Health Department was notified about the water leak problem, and information about this problem was placed on the blog. Questions about the potential for future water leaks in this building remain.

Another issue that needs to clarified is concerning the topic of the IEP diploma. I first brought this issue up as part of my discussion of a routine IEP motion; I was prohibited from discussing this issue, and ruled out of order. My response was to vote no on the motion. I will not vote yes on any motion which I am unable to discuss. It would not be correct for me to approve a motion without the necessary information or input. This information was only provided at the next meeting.

Overall I find Dr. Eastwood's behavior disturbing. He often verbally attacks board members at meetings, but hides behind his contract when board members do likewise. First of all, as an employee of the board, he is not in a position to verbally attack any board member, and he often forgets that he is not our boss. He has even gone so far as to use the district web site to attack board members. I am sure that he would not tolerate this behavior from any of his subordinates. I wish he would act accordingly.

Dr. Nicholas A. Mauro

Does The District Place Too Many Students Into Individual Student Programs (IEP)?

According to the Learning Disabilities Association of New York (LDA), too many students are placed into IEPs. In their published position statement they write:

. The IEP diploma is rarely if ever an appropriate alternative for a student with a learning disability we agree that it should limited to those who receive alternative assessments or less than 2% of the students receiving special education.

. At the same time, there are a group of students with and without disabilities that are not able to successfully meet the testing requirements for a Regents Diploma. For them, alternative diploma tracts should be developed and available, including a Career-Tech High School Diploma that is at the same level as a Regents Diploma.

The State Education Department also is phasing out IEPs. This position was confirmed in an email sent by Dr. Eastwood on August 17th to the board. All this information is very relevant to the placement of any child into an IEP program. At the August 5th meeting of the Board of Education, Dr. Mauro tried to present this information to the public as part of his discussion of an IEP approval motion. Rather than let him openly discuss this issue, Mrs. Knapp ruled Dr. Mauro out of order, and prevented him from speaking . Later, she, Mr. Estrada, and Dr. Eastwood twisted and politicized this issue and falsely characterized Dr. Mauro as being insensitive to and opposed to the needs of special eduction students. This smoke screen may have been designed to to hid the fact that the district may be assigning too many students to IEP programs, and to keep the public unaware of the value of the IEP Diploma. Namely, the IEP Diploma is a worthless credential for obtaining jobs, further education, and in the military. Hopefully, the district will reassess its criteria for placing students into IEP programs, and use IEPs only for those very few students for whom it may be appropriate.

Board Meetings Used For Propaganda Rather Than as a Democratic Forum

For even the casual viewer of Chanel 20, it is readily apparent how the district uses their televised board meetings to inform the public of the achievements of Dr. Eastwood and his administration. Ever effort is made to project a one-sided messaged to the public. All dissent or challenges to this image are forcibly suppressed. Behind the scenes much effort is directed to orchestrate this image. The president of the board meets with Dr. Eastwood and his administration to construct the meeting agenda. This agenda and its associated materials are send to the board usually the Friday before scheduled Thursday meetings. Board members are instructed to contact Dr. Eastwood before meetings with questions about the agenda or these related materials. They are instructed not to raise any issues or question in public that the superintendent and the board have not been given prior notification. The only thing missing from this scenario is a script for board member to follow. When board member deviate from this format, or opening challenge or disagree with Dr. Eastwood, they are ruled out of order, prohibited from speaking, viciously attacked by Dr. Eastwood and/or his supporters, and often characterized as being against students. By these tactics open unscripted dialog and free speech is suppressed.

Members of the public have also been enlisted to defend and promote Dr. Eastwood's and the district's public image. Contrary to what they would like the general public to believe, their participation at meetings is not random. These individuals routinely come to meeting for the purpose of attacking. insulting, and heckling board members who disagree, question, or challenge Dr. Eastwood, or the public image he has created for the district. No attempt is made by the board leadership to control these individuals. One can observe the same individuals always showing up for meetings. Some of them were members of the political action group (GET) that helped put several current board members into office.

When presiding at meetings, Mr. Geiger and Mrs. Knapp play a special role in promoting Dr. Eastwood, his image, and his agenda. They are charged with keep board member in line. When board members challenge Dr. Eastwood or his agenda, they rule board members out of order, and prohibit them from speaking. They even control criticism from the public. Mr. Geiger prevented Middletown's mayor from presenting his arguments to the board over the current water/sewer problem, and both Mr. Geiger and Dr. Eastwood are currently being sued for prohibited a member from another district from speaking at the district's "Opportunity to Address the Board". Mr. Geiger and Mrs. Knapp also always arrange to give Dr. Eastwood the last word on all discussions. Once, Mr. Geiger even threatened Dr. Mauro with expulsion from a meeting for attempting to challenge Dr. Eastwood's final comments. Unlike board members, Mr. Geiger and Mrs Knapp do not put any restrictions on the length of time or when Dr. Eastwood may speak. They have allowed board meetings to be turned into "superintendent press conferences" for his propaganda.

In part, Webster defines Fascism as: ...autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader,...and forcible suppression of opposition. For this part of the definition, The Middletown School District appears to fit.

Eastwood Claims That Chorley Roof Leaks Have Been Corrected

At the August 5th meeting of the Board of Education, Dr Eastwood claimed that the Chorley's leaking roof had been corrected. For years, Chorley's roof has been plagued with water leaks. His announcement came after the State Health department had been notified of the problem. Miraculously, Chorley's water leak problem was solved and corrected without an expenditure of vast sums of district monies. How? This occurrence happened in face of the very poor condition of the roof as reported by RSA (District Architects) in '09. To date, the correction of Chorley's roof has been only a dream, and we would suggest that the people who take care of the building do not give away their extra water buckets. If you are a betting person, we would suggest that you do not bet that Chorley's roof will not leak again. And with these leaks comes a mold problem. However, the state is aware of this situation and we will keep you informed of when Chorley's roof leaks again.

Exclusive: Chorley conditions ripe for mold, says state health department official

The water leakage problems at Chorley can easily develop into mold. This problem was documented by the district's architects RSA (Robertson Strong Apgar, P.C.) in September '09 and to this date, nothing has been done to fully correct it. Associated with water leaks is the companion problem of mold and mildew which could lead to sickness and other related illnesses for students and staff members. In that same aforementioned document, it states:

"The slopes of the roof direct the water run-off, especially in heavy downpours, to the building walls. Over the years the water has created algae and mildew on the walls and in some cases has eroded through the face of the masonry wall."

It needs to be mentioned that the warm moist environment in Chorley creates the perfect conditions for the growth of mildew, mold, and some harmful microorganisms. Even at low concentrations in the air, some mold species spores can cause respiratory problems and are a serious health risk.

Before one can remove mold and mildew in buildings, the first step is to correct and prevent water leakage. Unfortunately, although the water leakage problems have been identified since September of '09, to our knowledge, these problems have not been fully corrected. Both the state health and education departments have been notified of this situation.

The question is: Will these potential health risks be fully corrected before the opening of Chorley in the fall? Without prompt corrective action, the district may be exposing their students to a potential health risk and increase the district's legal exposure to future litigation.

Bombshell Report: Truman Moon will soon close

Truman Moon is on the chopping block. That's right, folks! We at "Inside Middletown Schools" are prepared to go public and inform you all that the school which holds some 400-500 students will close when the new elementary school (that will replace Chorley) is built.

In documents obtained by "Inside Middletown Schools" - which we'll soon be posting on this blog - is clearly shows that in order to justify the building of the new elementary school to the state education department, Middletown school officials cited the removal of all students that currently exist in Chorley AND Truman Moon.

When recently asked about this piece of information, Dr. Kenneth W. Eastwood flat-out lied and misinformed the public saying that there were no plans to slash Truman Moon. However, documentation submitted by the school district to the state will soon prove otherwise.

Rumor has it that SUNY Orange, which main campus is within walking distance from the school, has expressed interest in the property, although no one was able to confirm or deny in time for this posting. After all is said and done, the question still remains: Why the cover up? Why not left the public at large know that their beloved elementary school will soon be vacated in preparation for the new elementary school? No one knows for sure. But one thing is for sure; we at "Inside Middletown Schools" will be covering this story very closely and will be reporting it here on this blog -- just for you!

YouTube videos expose Eastwood and Geiger

Eastwood blocks Mauro's emails, further stifles freedom of speech

"I question the authority of Dr. Eastwood to block my emails from the district's public email system, and I'm outraged by his unilateral action without consulting the board of education. Dr. Eastwood is currently being counter-sued by me for attempting to use a frivolous lawsuit to intimidate my freedom of speech. In addition, Dr. Eastwood is also being sued by Mr. Francis Hoefer for his role in blocking his ability to speak at the public portion of a school district meeting. Dr. Eastwood's recent action appears to be a further attempt to silence criticism of him and his administration."

Mauro hails victorious in case filed by Carol Gillen

In a stunning blow to the attempts by some community members to cause disruption for board of education members, the case filled by Carol Gillen, a negative thorn in the side of the board, has been dismissed, again. After the initial appeal to have Dr. Mauro removed was dismissed, Gillen, who could not accept defeat, appealed the verdict, only to have it dismissed again. In an email statement released shortly after the ruling was announced, Dr. Mauro said the following:

" I have been informed today that the commissioner has refused to reopen
her case against me. His action is the final chapter in this matter. I
always have questioned her motivation for initiating this legal action, and
believe that she was advised wrongly to start these proceedings."

Hopefully the remaining hate-filled community members will learn a lesson from this and stop their polarizing actions. Maybe now we can move forward in the hopes of bettering the lives of our most precious asset: our children.

Delay of new school caused in part by Eastwood's reluctance to meet with Mayor

If Dr. Kenneth Eastwood had his way he would like to blame the delay of the new elementary school a a few "dissidents" of anyone who doesn't agree with his viewpoints. The truth, however, is that the delay can be in part contributed to the fact that Dr. Eastwood has yet to meet with Middletown mayor Joe DeStefano about the sewage issue. In fact, he's refused to do so. Why? Perhaps it's because he knows the city has a good case?

In any event, the issue at hand is clear: the current sewage line is at full capacity and the building of a new school would jeopardize the current system to the point that raw sewage would leak into the homes of those who live in close proximity to the new elementary school. If you don't live in the area you probably don't care if raw sewage ends up in someone else's backyard, but if you do live in the area, is that what you want? We didn't think so.

So whose responsibility is it to upgrade the system? Mayor DeStefano says the answer is the school district. He has said that if any private developer wanted to conduct the same project, the responsibility would fall on their shoulders to make the necessary repairs. So why is this case any different?

Because Dr. Kenneth Eastwood said so.

"Inside Middletown" Debuts on YouTube

We at "Inside Middletown Schools" are pleased to announce that we have created a page on the social media site YouTube. By doing this, we are enabling the public at large to be aware of the "going on's" of the Middletown Board of Education as it relates to video recordings. We are also creating this page to respond to the numerous videos uploaded against members of the Board and its biased content -- now both sides of the story can be aired. To access the YouTube videos you can either type in a search or go directly to the page by visiting: http://www.youtube.com/user/InsideMiddletown

New York State Comptroller says "Dissidents" were right all along!

Below is the report completed by the New York State Comptroller, in which he clearly backs up claims made by members of the Board of Education last year. In a previous post, we upload the letter which prompted this investigation, but here it is again. The results: The administration has not been following proper procedure relative to change orders. Period. Read it for yourself.


change order -

Dr. Eastwood unwiling to negotiate with Mayor regarding sewer/water problems

Despite many offers to negotiate, Dr. Eastwood has been unwilling to sit down with Mayor DeStefano to discuss and negotiate their differences over solutions for the water/sewer problems for the new elementary school. Dr. Eastwood has drawn a line in the sand and refuses to work with the mayor towards a solution. Dr. Eastwood has attempted to work around the mayor on related issues and has contacted the mayor's subordinates rather than dealing directly with him. Although there may be substance to Dr. Eastwood's position, his stubbornness and unwillingness to negotiate with the mayor demonstrates a greater concern for his own ego rather than a concern for the district and the need for our students.

Here is the letter that was sent to Mayor DeStefano from Mr. Carl Thurnau, Director of Facilities for the state education department, and below is the mayor's response. This should clarify this issue.


from the mayor -

Times Herald Record hides the true story about change orders

Too bad the story that was buried on page 10 of yesterday's paper was not included in the on line edition. Rather than simply reiterating the "first he said, and then the other one said" melodrama found in today's article, yesterday's story softly pointed out that the New York State Comptroller found that Middletown has not been handling construction change orders properly... exactly as the so called "minority faction" have been saying for over a year. In other words, the board members who claim that big money decisions are being made behind their backs, now have the support of the New York State Comptroller.

This finding by the State's chief financial officer doesn't exactly follow the unwavering story line that the Record has developed over the last year and a half: "dissidents impede superintendent from the excellent work he is doing." What the audit shows is that board members were right to raise questions about the construction projects. And by implication, it should make us ask why the superintendent and his supporters - including those here at the paper - worked so hard to ridicule those who were asking the right questions.

Maybe someone from the newspaper can join in this discussion and explain the journalistic decision making behind these articles and their placement. Here is yesterday's complete story, now available for your comments.


"M'Town district advised to alter construction policy

The state comptroller's office has recommended that the Middletown School District tighten up its policy on construction change orders to better safeguard public funds.

The state recommended that the school board change district policy so that the board is notified in a timely manner of proposed changes, so the board can review and approve all change orders before completion of the work.

District officials have agreed to follow the recommendations.

From July 2007 to October 2009, the district spent $26 million on its Phase I construction project - the new athletic facilities and high school renovations - of which $1.8 million or 6.9 percent was in change orders. Seven percent had been budgeted for changes.

Auditors found that without a comprehensive policy, about half the change orders were approved after work was done.

The board adopted a change order policy in September 2009; the auditors said that policy needs more changes to provide better control over the public's money."

By Fred Isseks

Dissidents Allegations

Exclusive Bombshell Report: Eastwood allegedly 'attacked' female student

In a bombshell exclusive report, we at "Inside Middletown Schools" are reporting that Dr. Kenneth W. Eastwood allegedly attacked a former female student in Oswego. Several witnesses gave testimony during the course of an investigation that brought Dr. Kenneth Eastwood to his knees. Throughout the investigation, people who witnessed the 'attack' testified against Dr. Eastwood and presented information that proved that Dr. Eastwood had physical contact with the student (who we shall keep nameless).

Apparently Dr. Eastwood could not see the student's I.D. and upon requesting that information, he laid his hands on her in an uncomfortable exchange that left people wondering: Who is Dr. Kenneth Eastwood?

Now, What's wrong with this picture?

Isn't the superintendent of schools supposed to protect children and students? He should not harm them or have physical contact with them. This type of inappropriate behavior is unprofessional and is reminiscent of the kind of attack on a student that was displayed during the Sigler era.

My View: Chorley Elementary School needs to be preserved

This is a My View by Jay DiLorenzo, President of the Preservation League of New York State, making a compelling argument for why Chorley Elementary School should be preserved.

Rapid Depletion Of Fund Balance Reserves By Dr. Eastwood

Although Dr. Eastwood blamed the Governor for the increase in next years school taxes, he failed to to take any responsibility or share any blame for the district's current budgetary problems. Dr. Eastwood did not inform the public that he took $5.3 million out of the fund balance reserve to reduce last years tax increase, and to supplement the current year operating budget.

Dr. Eastwood also did not inform the public that in the proposed budget for next year, an addition $4.7 million will taken out of the fund balance reserve. It appears that items that were paid for out of the reserve fund this year will again be covered by the fund balance reserve next year. Instead of using the reserve fund to cover operating expenses, these monies should have been used to cover the current shortfall in State aid, and no job cuts would have been necessary. The fund balance reserves are suppose to be for emergencies, and not for general operating expenses. The budget increase for next year is 6.91%. If Dr Eastwood had obtained the $4.7 million needed for expenses from taxes rather than from the reserve fund, our school tax increase for next year would have been 16.3% and not 6.91%. For every $500 thousand tax unit, the tax rate is increased by about 1%. Clearly, our fund balance reserve fund is not being used for the purpose for which it was designed.

As of June 30, 2009, the fund balance reserve was $18,883,357. For this year and next year, we will spend about $10 million from this fund. This scenario brings to mind Mr. Hoefer's allegations about Dr. Eastwood when he was superintendent in Oswego about depletion of reserve funds. If the current rate of spending is not reduced, the district may face double digit school tax increases in the near future.

Report: Teacher claims Eastwood requested accelerated grade for daughter

In a legal claim, Ellen Dillon, a former teacher for the Oswego school district claimed that Dr. Kenneth Eastwood's wife, Suzanne, requested that she increase their daughters grades after learning she wasn't doing so well in gym class.

The document reads, "Petitioner [Dillon] claims that two board members and the wife of Superintendent Kenneth Eastwood (formerly the assistant superintendent) complained about the grades earned by their children in petitioner’s physical education classes and allegedly attempted to have petitioner change their grades."

Ellen Dillon was described as a phenomenal teacher who according to sources was the subject of a vindictive pay-back scheme.

The document also states, "Petitioner contends that two members of respondent board and the superintendent of schools were dissatisfied with the grades their children earned in her physical education classes. She alleges that, as a result of that dissatisfaction, respondent made a teaching assignment that, although still within her tenure area, precludes her from exercising sole responsibility for student grades."

To some within the Enlarged School District of Middletown, the idea that Dr. Kenneth Eastwood would retaliate against outspoken people is not unbelievable. What's the saying, "Some people never change".

The full document can be read here.

Reasons For Proposed Higher School Taxes

On April 8th, the Middletown Board of Education rejected the superintendent's 2010/11 budget proposal due to its inclusion of a large increase in school taxes. Although Dr. Eastwood attributed this tax increase to the state's withholding of funds, he failed to mention the contribution his unbridled development of programs has had to the current budget problem. Last year, for the 2009/10 fiscal year, approximately 5.3 million dollars was taken from the unstructured reserve fund to supplement state and local taxes to underwrite program development and minimize an increase in school taxes.

Unfortunately this year, the governor's recent withholding of state funds has exacerbated an already tight fiscal situation. In the proposed budget, funds for some of last year's new expenses need to be financed by taxes rather than being paid for by the reserve fund. In addition, the deficit in the state's appropriation of funds also must be supplied by more taxes or budget cuts. Given the district's unrestricted development of new programs, the administration must share some of the blame for the current fiscal shortfall. Although the quality and need for these programs has never been brought into question, Dr. Eastwood does not appear to recognize that the cost for financing these programs has gone beyond the capacity of the people within the district to pay. In addition, many of these programs were developed by grants, and the cost of these programs will eventually fall onto the district taxpayers.

In the current proposed budget, Dr. Eastwood has placed the taxpayers between a rock and a hard place. Either accept his large tax increase, or accept an equally large tax increase mandated by a contingency budget. On April 8th, the board rejected Dr. Eastwood,s budget based on an understanding of this situation. At that time , the Board directed him to further reduce the projected school budget for next year. Rather than take the board's suggestions, it appears that Dr. Eastwood will attempt to ram his previous budget through during a special meeting called on April 14. It is now up to the taxpayer to reject the current proposed budget. Granted, by default, they will be accepting an equally costly contingency budget, but the public will send a clear message to Dr. Eastwood to stop the growth in program development which they can not afford.

Eastwood's legal 'threats' fall on deaf ears

Dr. Kenneth Eastwood has pretty much threatened anyone he cannot control with a lawsuit. He's threatened school board members Evelyn Isseks, Nick Mauro and Francis Hoefer. Once with a lawyer that's not even his from the New York State Council of School Superintendents, and twice from a lawyer from Greenwald Law Offices. All "legal" letters were poorly written and full of hot air; all flash and no substance. We at "Inside Middletown Schools" believe that Dr. Eastwood has no basis for any of his claims and is only trying to strong arm this Board into falling lock-step under his control, similar to that of fascists.

Truth be told, if Dr. Eastwood has a legal case, he would have filed it by now. So one needs to stop and ask why that hasn't happened? Perhaps it's because he has no case. As Dr. Eastwood continues to threaten people with frivolous lawsuits, something he is sure to do as long as he remains superintendent, one this is for sure: We at "Inside Middletown Schools" have no intention on backing down or getting rid of this site. In the words of Francis Hoefer, "Bring it on!"

"Inside Middletown Schools" gains traction on web!

We at "Inside Middletown Schools" have good news to share with you...Starting right now you can access our blog on popular search engines, such as Google and Yahoo!

All you have to do is go to Google, and type in "Inside Middletown Schools". Alternatively, you can type in the name of any person that appears on the blog, and the site should pop up as one of the search results on the first page.

Happy surfing!

Question: Did Dr. Kenneth Eastwood support a convicted drug user?

When Francis Hoefer said that schools Superintendent Kenneth W. Eastwood supported a convicted drug user, Eastwood called him a liar, threatened to sue, and attacked his character. Well, now it appears that Dr. Eastwood is the liar after a letter surfaced in which Dr. Eastwood is clearly recommending that the Oswego School Board re-hire Daniel Harmony, a disgraced educator who in FACT was charged and convicted of possessing 7.8 grams of drugs during a search of his home. Liar, liar, pants on fire, Dr. Eastwood! Read the three page letter for yourself and determine who's the liar.

My View by Michael Sussman

The following is an excerpt of an editorial submitted by civil rights attorney Michael Sussman.

"I am appalled at the editorial which appeared in the Times Herald Record this morning. It minimizes the violation of the First Amendment committed by Superintendent Kenneth Eastwood and the Board President Geiger and focuses on the wrong issue: "the dissidents" as if this were the Soviet Union.

For a full copy of the "My View" please visit the Democratic Alliance website at www.democraticalliance.com

Eastwood's Insensitivity to Local Labor

Historically, Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) maximize the use of local labor, and assist the on time and on budget completion of construction projects. Currently, they are used by Orange County and Middletown for their building projects. Last Year, Mr. Paul and Dr. Mauro introduced and proposed PLAs for the construction of the district's new elementary school, but Dr. Eastwood, the board attorneys, and RSA, the district's Syracuse architects rejected the adoption of PLAs. Given the high rate of local unemployment, and the current economic downturn, it is insensitive to the needs of our local labor for Dr. Eastwood and others to fail to protect our local labor workforce.

Recently, Joseph De Stefano, Middletown Mayor requested that the district reconsider its position on PLAs. Given Dr. Eastwood's previous rejection of PLAs, and his propensity for hiring people from upstate New York and outside our region, it is unlikely that he will reverse his position, nor recommend to the board that they adopt PLAs for the new elementary school. In light of the fact that Dr. Eastwood is asking local taxpayers to pay a large increase in our school taxes, his rejection of PLAs shows a disregard and lack of concern for our local workforce, and the financial needs of the people in the Middletown School District.

Superintendent Ken Eastwood called ‘out of touch’ with local taxpayers

In May, voters within the Enlarged City School District of Middletown will be asked to go to the polls and vote for staggering increases in local school taxes that will undoubtedly be impossible for many residents to pay.

The superintendent, Dr. Kenneth Eastwood, insists that the state is to blame and there is nothing that he can do about it. Many residents, especially local senior citizens, would probably take his concerns to heart if he himself paid taxes in the district. That’s right folks – the superintendent of schools, some times referred to as the “CEO” is responsible for setting your taxes, but doesn’t pay them, despite his over $200,000 a year salary and benefits.

Instead he and his wife, Suzanne, have opted to rent a luxury apartment on the outskirts of Middletown on Schutt Road in the Town of Wallkill.

How is it possible for Dr. Eastwood to sympathize with local taxpayers if he doesn’t contribute to the local tax base? A little birdie told me that as soon as Dr. Eastwood is finished building a resume for himself on the backs of Middletown taxpayers, he’ll just move somewhere else and forget that Middletown even exits.

Middletown Record's Editorials on Dissent

The Times Herald-Record's editorial on March 10th criticized the school board minority for their questioning of Dr Eastwood, and accused them of conducting an ongoing "inquisition" of the superintendent. The board members were performing their state mandated function as "watchdogs" for the school district, but paradoxically, the Record deduced that by questioning the superintendent they are hurting the students. In an earlier editorial, the Record chastised the board minority for their dissent in light of the "significant progress" the district has made. As can be seen in their articles, the newspaper has been consistently one-sided and biased in their reporting. The Record's editors appear to have allowed their paper to be used willingly as a public relations tool by Dr. Eastwood. The Record's view on dissent is not only wrong and harmful, but more typical of news media found in repressive totalitarian regimes. Their view of dissent is inconsistent with our American values. In our country, we support open and free public discourse.

At the March 4th Middletown School Board meeting, Mr. Geiger, board president, disallowed a nonresident from addressing the board, and Dr. Eastwood had him taken away in handcuffs. Rather than focus on these basic violations of constitutional rights in the March 10th editorial, The Record twisted its discussion around to a condemnation of the board minority. The Record's weak support for the freedom of speech is appalling, and its opposition to dissent is echoed by Dr. Eastwood, the current board majority, and some members of the public. These individuals fail to recognize that they are the ones harming the students. They are teaching students that dissent is wrong, and that dissenters can expect public condemnation, derision, and repression for questioning authority or expressing a different point of view. Their lesson turns education into indoctrination. They ignore or are unaware of the "market place of ideas" concept, in which all speech is tolerated with the belief that in an open debate, the better ideas will prevail. Dissent does not harm students, but public repression of dissent does.

Sources say Dr. Kenneth Eastwood supported drug user

As many of you already know, Dr. Kenneth W. Eastwood previously served as superintendent of the Oswego School District before coming to Middletown. But did you know that while as their superintendent, he supported the hiring of a convicted drug user? That's what sources tell "Inside Middletown Schools".

Daniel Harmony, who served as acting superintendent (right after Eastwood's departure) was charged by investigators of possessing roughly 7.8 grams of methamphetamines, which they found during a search of his home. The school board hired Harmony based on a recommendation by Eastwood, according to our sources.

Oswego school board member Francis Hoefer was opposed to the hiring but the school board rubber-stamped Eastwood's appointment. Shortly thereafter, the school board ultimately suspended and fired Daniel Harmony, with one board member reportedly saying, "Fran was right all along".

Tips & Submissions

Shortly after Dr. Kenneth Eastwood left the Oswego City School District, the School Board discovered that the district reserve funds had been almost completely depleted.
Fran Hoefer
(Oswego City School District Board of Education Member)

Media Coverage surrounding Fran Hoefer's illegal ejection from the March 4th School Board Meeting

Oswego school board member removed from Middletown school board meeting after trying to speak

Report: Hoefer escorted from Meeting in Middletown

Oswego Board Member and Superintendent Lock Horns Again, This time in Middletown

Oswego school board member jailed

School trustee backer ejected from Middletown meeting

Expert says Middletown school board was wrong to silence speaker

Please continue to visit this site, as more information will be posted on a regular basis.

Transcript of Mr. Hoefer's Statements He Was Unable to Make at the March 4th Middletown Board of Education Meeting

Here is the statement Fran Hoefer would have read if President Geiger had not violated his free speech:


My name is Fran Hoefer. I'm a member of the Oswego City School District Board of Education. I'm here tonight for a friendly visit and to observe. I'm also here to give your community a bit of a heads up about your superintendent. Dr. Eastwood was the "Golden Boy" of the Oswego City School District when he first ascended to power. His pristine appearance, charismatic personality, and technology mastery made him an object of admiration and respect. I personally thought he was a great guy. So did a great many other people. It wasn't until he packed his bags for Middletown that the Oswego School District discovered that our reserve accounts had been depleted. We discovered that our graduation rates weren't quite as high as we had thought. This was a bit of a bombshell for our community, and it also impelled a substantial tax increase to repair the damage.

I was not a member of the board when these discoveries were unveiled; because, I had preciously been forced off the board by Dr. Eastwood. Ken and his circle of board supporters charged me with misconduct and hired a very expensive law firm to bring charges against me. I was denied legal representation through a technicality, and was told that I had to defend my nonpaying board position with my own resources against a team of high powered lawyers being funded with the unlimited resources of the taxpayers. Does this scenario sound familiar to anyone in this room? There is something inherently unfair and reprehensible about an appointed bureaucrat using taxpayer money to remove an unpaid elected official from elected office. I was reelected in a landslide vote. Coincidentally, all the board members who voted to remove me are no longer board members.

I also would like to point out to this board, that it is against the rules of the Open Meetings Law to hold secret meetings of a select quorum to come to consensus. It is also illegal to come to consensus by telephone. Some of you may want to take a hard look in the a mirror before you choose to charge someone else with misconduct. Speaking of misconduct, anyone who is interested will soon be able to read about the scandals that happened in my district during the reign of Ken and company on a new website called insidemiddletownschools.blogspot.com. That's insidemiddletownschools.blogspot.com. This website is uncensored, and I will be able to speak freely about :

- allegations of Dr.Eastwood's abuse of a young honor student and the subsequent cover up

- Ken's attempt to rehire our district drug enforcement officer after he was convicted for
purchasing methamphetamines through the mail

- the good Dr.'s use of his position to aquire enhanced grades for his daughter.

- about secret emergency board meetings, abuse of power, self interest, and all the sordid aspects of your
superintendent that he is so good at hiding

My name is Fran Hoefer. I'll be on (insidemiddletownschools.blogspot.com). You can access the blog by typing insidemiddeletownschools.blogspot.com into the http//space of your computer. I guarantee you'll be astounded!

Middletown Graduation Rates Part I, II, III

Part I: Reporting and Doctoring

Annually, the RIC unit of Orange-Ulster BOCES reports Middletown's graduation rates for the previous year in the New York State Report Card. For example, in the spring of '09, the report card listed Middletown's '08 graduation rates. The false impression given by the report card is that the reported data represents official state rates, and that the information presented has been verified and certified by the state. As a point of fact, RIC Orange-Ulster BOCES only collects information from local school districts prior to printing the report card. District superintendents have the discretion to alter information and are solely responsible for reporting and interpreting graduation rates. On two occasions, we contacted RIC and requested confirmation and clarification of graduation rates. Their response was to direct us to Dr. Eastwood, and they later contacted him to assure him that they had not given us any information. Obviously, RIC staff are mere functionaries of local district superintendents, and play little or no role in authenticating the validity graduation rates. These observations also helps to explain the difficulties in obtaining correct and official data concerning graduation rates; since, only the superintendent can provide this information. Dr. Eastwood has never reported the official graduation rates nor cohort numbers to the public.

Last year, Dr' Eastwood changed the official size of the '04 and '05 cohorts; thereby, altering the the graduation rates for the '08 and '09 classes, respectively. The graduation rate is equal to the number of students who graduate by August 31 divided by the number of students who stared in that class in 9th grade (the class cohort). In examining Dr. Eastwood's actions, we need to ask the following question. Why did it take almost four or five years to correct the size numbers of the '04 and '05 cohorts? The Public relation advantage and effects of changing the size of the cohorts is easy to see. On Oct, 2009, based on Dr. Eastwood's modification, RIC reported a 19% change for the June '8 and '09 graduation rates, and by decreasing the size of the '05 cohort, the '09 rate spiked to 77% compared to the '08 rate of 68%. We must now asked this question : Was the change in the cohort numbers after so many years by Dr. Eastwood justified, or just a manipulation of the data to inflate graduation rates? Given the timing of these changes, it appears that the later point is more probable.


Graduation Rates
Part II : Analysis

After Dr. Mauro's report that the graduation rates for the Middletown School District have not not changed significantly for the last several years, we were not surprised by Dr. Eastwood's attack of Dr. Mauro at the board meeting and on the district web site. We interrupted his response as a recognition of the potential damage this information could do to his inflated image of the district's academic achievement, and as a defense against a questioning of his credibility. However, during his long attacks, Dr. Eastwood never reported an official listing of the district's graduation rates between '03 to '09. According to RIC, only the district can officially report graduation rates and clarify the information provided in the state report cards. Since Dr. Eastwood has neither clarified nor provided this information to the public, how can anyone outside the administration have the correct updated official graduation rates or cohort numbers?

Following a request by Mrs. Isseks , Dr. Eastwood begrudgingly provided to the board a copy of a state form from RIC updating the June '08 an '09 graduation rates to 62% and 74%, respectively. Later, the Record reported our August graduation rates between '05 to '09 as : '05-59%, '06-71%, '07-69%, '08-68%, '09-77%. Statically, between '05 and'09, the overall graduation rate mean is approximately 69% plus/minus a large standard deviation of approximately 11%. Hardly a stellar achievement, and clearly indicate that THE CHANGE IN OUR GRADUATION RATES IS NOT STATISTICALLY SIGNIFICANT BETWEEN '05 - '09. The lack of a statistically significant difference is even after Dr Eastwood's alteration of the '08 and '09 graduation rates (See Part I). It is also interesting to note, with the exception of the '09 rate in which Dr. Mauro estimated the size of the '05 cohort, that the graduation rates which he stated at a board meeting were, for the most part, the same or higher than the graduation rates reported by the Record between '05 - '09. Since graduation rates are the prime indicator of student achievement. Dr Eastwood's comments and the Record's headline appear to have grossly exaggerated our student achievement under his administration. It is important to know where we are before we and move forward. The records headline is also puzzling given the Record's June, 2009 article by Mr. Paul Brooks. He reported on the '08 and '09 graduation rates of 33 districts in Orange Sullivan and Ulster counties. For '08, of the 16 districts in Orange county, only two districts had lower graduation rates than Middletown. Of the 33 districts listed, Middletown's graduation rates fall within the lowest 20% of the 33 districts listed.

Graduation Rates
Part III: Use of Number of Graduates
Without Use of Graduation Rates

Even more troublesome than Dr. Eastwood's exaggeration of student achievement are his statements in which he boast in the Record of almost a doubling of the number graduates between '04 and '09, and on the district web site, a more than doubling of the number a economically disadvantaged students graduating between '05-'09. His comments give the impression that the district has doubled our graduation rates. As a point of fact, in terms of achievement, an increase in graduation numbers mean nothing without a concomitant increase in graduation rates. I will illustrate an example of why reporting only the number of graduates is both deceptive and misleading. Let's compare two hypothetical schools A and B :

School A: 350 graduates total cohort 500 : graduation rate 70%
School B: 700 graduates total cohort 1000 : graduation rate 70%

If we compare school A with school B, school B has twice the number of graduates. However, without a higher graduation rate, there is no difference in student achievement. Observe, we have twice the number of graduates, but we also have twice the number of students who did not graduate. According to the New York State Report Cards, the graduation rates for economically disadvantages student have not increased significantly for the past few years. For '08, the graduation rate for economically disadvantaged students was reported as 65%. A copy of the '08 Report Card is currently posted on the district web page. Since both our graduation rate for economically disadvantaged students, and our overall graduation rates have not changed significantly for the past few years (see Part I), Dr. Eastwood's reporting of a doubling or almost doubling of the number of student graduating in the newspaper, and on the school web site have given a false impression to the public of increased student achievement when little has occurred. Granted, there have been many improvements in the district, but not of the magnitude reported by the district administration.

Although this approach to the reporting of information may be acceptable in politics or business, it is antithetical for educational institutions to manipulate information in this way. Educational institutions need to be held to higher standard, and objectively report the facts without using inflated information, spin, hype, or propaganda. To do otherwise, not only brings Dr. Eastwood's credibility into question, but may jeopardize the credibility of the school district.