School under fire for staff's criminal pasts
Asst. principal on leave; screening policy reviewed
By Brian Maass, CBS4 News and Nancy Mitchell, Rocky Mountain News
Originally published 08:18 p.m., May 12, 2008
Updated 01:21 p.m., May 13, 2008
Brian Lehmann / Special To The Rocky
A bus is parked outside Challenges, Choices and Images charter school, where an assistant principal has been put on leave after being arrested 10 times in Denver since 2001.
Brian Lehmann / Special To The Rocky
Carolyn Jones, principal of Challenges, Choices and Images charter school in Montbello, points into a classroom where a couple of students were goofing around. Dominique Houston, 18, is at left.
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Denver Public Schools is investigating a range of allegations against a Montbello charter school, including an assistant principal arrested 10 times since 2001.
Carolyn Jones, founder and principal of Challenges, Choices and Images Charter School, said she placed Assistant Principal William H. Brown on leave and is re-evaluating employee screening after a CBS4 investigation.
"I don't know what the answer is, but I think we need a much better way of evaluating," Jones said after the investigation revealed numerous employees had criminal histories including thefts, forgery and even a registered sex offender.
The Rocky Mountain News has learned that DPS, tipped off by a former employee, is investigating other claims at the school, informally known as CCI:
Public tax dollars intended for the charter school have been loaned by school leaders to fund a private day-care program.
Paychecks to teachers bounced in April, and some of the school's suppliers have been calling DPS to complain about lack of payment.
Grades were changed to improve students' chances of winning scholarships for college.
Jones could not be reached for comment Monday about those claims. In a letter sent Thursday to DPS leaders, she denies "co- mingling" public and private dollars.
'Never seen this before'
CBS4 found seven of Brown's arrests were for drug paraphernalia.
"I have never seen this before," Jones said when shown the arrest records.
Denver Police arrested Brown, 55, in 2005 in an alley at 22nd and Arapahoe streets.
According to police, Brown was involved in a drug purchase and "admitted that he was buying crack and furthermore admitted that he had a crack pipe in his pants pocket."
Records indicate that Brown pleaded no contest to possession of drug paraphernalia.
However, in an interview, Brown denied having a crack pipe, denied being involved in a drug deal and said the police report is wrong.
Denver police again arrested Brown six months ago on a similar charge. Officers said they saw Brown at 5:25 a.m. Nov. 4 on the 500 block of East Colfax Avenue.
"He reached into his right front pocket and pulled out a crack pipe and a small baggie containing a small amount of suspected powder cocaine in an attempt to hide the items," wrote officer Andre Pino.
No formal charges were filed and the case ultimately was dropped. Brown said the police report is wrong, that he did not have a crack pipe or cocaine.
Police also arrested Brown in 2001 for possession of drug paraphernalia, a charge resulting in a deferred judgment.
Brown said he can't recall seven times he was arrested in the past seven years and noted that most of the cases were dismissed anyway.
Checks lacking
Charter schools, which are publicly funded but run by independent boards, have autonomy over hiring.
DPS' contract with CCI, as with its other charters, says the school is to run staff background checks.
But the CBS4 investigation found gaps in the system:
Charles A. Hopkins was hired in 2006 to work as a night custodian despite a six-page rap sheet that included arrests for felony burglary, felony trespass, dangerous drugs and armed motor vehicle theft.
Jones said he was hired because his mother worked for CCI. He was fired because he "went back to doing drugs," she said.
Charles Johnson, a registered sex offender, was hired as a day laborer when CCI needed to move a large amount of furniture and books.
Jones said Johnson did not have contact with students but, in retrospect, DPS tax dollars should never have gone to pay a sex offender.
Dion Davis, another mover, spent time in prison for felony larceny and drugs.
"I would not do it again," Jones said of the hiring of Johnson and Davis. "That's certainly my fault; I take full responsibility."
CCI employs other staff members with arrest sheets. CBS4 found staff convictions for possession of drug paraphernalia, soliciting for prostitution, assault and theft.
But Jones said having those kinds of backgrounds can help staff members relate to students.
"We've got people who have had experiences like the kids," she said, "so that they can say to the kids, 'That choice you're going to make is not a good choice. I've been there and walked those shoes.'"
Financial questions
CCI, a DPS charter school since 2000, moved last fall to a new location in Montbello. That's also when school leaders decided to open an independent child care center.
But the center had no funding. So members of the CCI charter school governing board decided to loan the center "an amount not to exceed $500,000," according to board minutes dated June 29, 2007.
Jones, in her letter to school board members dated May 8, notes there are questions about the loaning of money from the charter school to the center.
"The loans are awaiting repayment as soon as a bank loan in process is secured," she wrote.
Jones said the loan is not "co-mingling" of public and private dollars, noting, "As to the co-mingling of funds, the school has never done that."
She adds, "We have, however, made loans to the Montessori day care center as an attempt to get them open in a timely manner for state and city health inspections."
DPS spokesman Alex Sanchez declined to comment on any aspect of the investigation. Denver school board members voted in February to put the charter on a year's probation, largely for academic reasons.
DPS is currently negotiating the terms of that one-year contract.
"We would like to conclude the investigation before we comment on any recommendations the district will make to the board of education," Sanchez said, adding, "We are moving as fast as we can."
Contact Nancy Mitchell at mitchelln@rockymountainnews.com
Contact Brian Maass at bmaass@cbs.com
Challenges, Choices and Images charter school
* Address: 11200 E. 45th Ave., Montbello neighborhood
* Enrollment: K-12
* Curriculum: CCI is an African-centered school. According to the school's Web site, students are expected to learn the ancient African guiding principles for living a moral life and to utilize them in their daily interactions.
* Opened: 1999 by Principal Carolyn Jones
* Of note: Enrolled New Orleans evacuees after Hurricane Katrina; put on one-year academic probation by Denver Public Schools board for poor performance in February.
May 12, 2008
8:39 p.m.
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Lowtaxequalsfreedom writes:
Non Charter schools have the same problems.
May 12, 2008
9:35 p.m.
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dadinlittleton writes:
OK, this is a direct attack on charter schools, you know the ones without the drop out rate and all the extra security cause education comes first. and the teacher union attacks??? get over it. your days are numbered. teacher union has a place but running education at the sacrifice of all our students???? NO!!! and buying a story like this from Rocky mountain news. not a good thing. I appreciate the watch every teacher but come on. This is a open attack on charter schools. When public Schools can have the academic achievements (say within 20%) i will worry. yes, check them out! but please check out public school sanitation personnel and you will be very disappointed.
May 12, 2008
9:54 p.m.
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happymike44 writes:
This is what is wrong in this country I pay to educate all the kids.What is fair that some kids get special treatment while others get left behind.Hire more teachers and teacher's aides.Then have them focus on all the kids not just some of them.
May 12, 2008
9:56 p.m.
MRSTTYLER writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
May 13, 2008
5:46 a.m.
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LOUIE writes:
Soon Denver will or already has a better crime lab than C.B.I.; just look at the Brents Brents case. C.B.I. was so back logged that DNA evidence on this serial rapist just sat untested at C.B.I.. However, Denver Police were able to processes the evidence so quickly that they identified the suspect immediately and arrested him saving the public from further assaults by this man. Soon, if Denver is smart, your going to see several surrounding counties coming to use Denver's crime lab and paying Denver and bypassing C.B.I. as C.B.I. falls to a substandard position in processing crime scenes. C.B.I. will cry for more money, but it's not money folks, it's adsministrative personnel changes that are needed. Denver police, will if they don't already, have the premier crime lab in the state. If I were a chief in another county, I'd look to Denver not C.B.I. if I needed the information quickly and efficently processed.
May 13, 2008
6:53 a.m.
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holekeeper writes:
Boy seems funny, yesterday a story about the charter schools and how they can help improve schooling and the community in the poor neighborhoods this this comes up......I smell a rat!
May 13, 2008
6:59 a.m.
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Froward69 writes:
You get what you pay for. DPS actually Tests for that kind of stuf.
This is why charter schools are theft from the taxpayer.
You think your kids are safer in charter schools.?.
May 13, 2008
7:14 a.m.
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holekeeper writes:
Froward69,
Yep I have mine in charter schools, the pri. Is also the town mayor, and I love it. DPS has had several incidents with teachers so dont act like DPS has squeaky clean teachers. man you just take out of these kind of stories waht you want to. get over it DPS sucks and until they fix the problims then we will continue to have charter schools. In our town the charter schools presence made the others clean up thier act and now all the kids are getting a better education and that is a good thing!
May 13, 2008
8:11 a.m.
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gcrez writes:
MRSTTYLER,
How come every time there is something negative written about african-americans, they must be picking on black people? This is a major issue, and luckily nothing bad happened. Now, if one of the sex offenders would have committed a crime on one of the kids, how would you feel? I wouldn't wish that kind of act on any of my enemies, let alone some innocent kids. You're right, if it were a white school they wouldn't report about their hiring practices, thats because it would be a story about how the school was being sued by a paranoid parent.
May 13, 2008
8:49 a.m.
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Big_D writes:
Background checks for school employees in a primary school should be mandatory. This is not an attack on charter schools but this particular charter school needs a house cleaning. If he is a crack head he may have no grasp of his problem so they need to fully investigate the situation. Look at the mug shots; he may have had his identity stolen.
May 13, 2008
8:52 a.m.
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farsidefan writes:
I disagree that this is just a story to get after charter schools. Whenever there is an issue with any school it gets lots of pub. Teachers doing stupid things, kids doing stupid things, low test scores, high test scores, etc.
So if it is good for the goose it is good for the gander.
No one is "picking" on this school because of the population it serves. It is in the news because of its questionable hiring practices. Period.
Similiar to DPS getting bad pub because of low scores. Brighton Charter for all of its problems. Adams County for its questionable hiring of an out of state architect with connections to the administration.
East High for its terrific Constitutional students, it's woodworking classes making musical instruments.
Etc, etc.
May 13, 2008
9:18 a.m.
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Coco writes:
MRST - Seriously, you don't want this kind of thing cleaned up? You'd rather let them hire whomever just as long as no one reports misdoings because it's predominatly black? That is the most ridiculous thing I've read today. Maybe that's the kind of school you want, but it's not the kind I want. Black or white! (P.S. Were you outraged about the report on the white DA in Colo Spgs? I'm sure it was just because he was white. LOL)
May 13, 2008
9:20 a.m.
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Lowtaxequalsfreedom writes:
Froward69 wrote:"This is why charter schools are theft from the taxpayer."
It is all theft from the citizen.
Oh let me guess froward69 if you or your leaders take the money then it is not theft. It is only theft when the money goes to something that you do not approve of or did not implement.
It's not theft when you and your kind take it.
If some of it is theft it is ALL THEFT!
May 13, 2008
9:25 a.m.
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Dick_Tater writes:
Lets compare apples to apples here. How does this school compare to the public schools that service the same area?
And I love this line...
In recent years, the school bought a large amount of furniture and books that Jones said needed to be moved quickly. She said laborers were hired without any checking because of the urgency of the project. CBS4 found one of the men, Johnson, is a registered sex offender.
Wow! Now that is a stretch. You mean we are supposed to do background check on the movers? How about the fact that they school bought a large amount of furniture and books for the students?
May 13, 2008
9:42 a.m.
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daddyblt writes:
I think that this is a common example of how many african american organizations are put in the spotlight to show the problems that exist out in public. This is why there is a very strong stereotype of our children and they are profiled by the police, at the local malls, and even just walking on the streets around residential areas. It is not just our inner city schools that have these problems with their teachers and students. If you pay attention to what goes on in the world, white suburban schools tend to have the same kind of problems with their students and teachers as the inner city schools do. They have just as many incidents of incest, molestation, assault, drug use, crime, money fraud and other incidents as the inner city schools do. For some reason, it just seems that when it happens to minorities it makes the headlines, the front pages, the internet, the ten o'clock news and any other way that they can try to pull our people down. My comment is long, but I will say this in closing, as a people we must do everything to ensure the success of our children, our people and organizations which is why we must not just be equal, but ten times better than the rest of the competition. Even when we are, we will still have to overcome the stereotypes and prejudice opinions of others. No excuses for these new found developments in this school, just shows us that we have to do better!!!
May 13, 2008
9:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
OhBrother writes:
10 times seems like a lot to me! regardless if he was found guilty, it takes a whole lot of being in the wrong place at the wrong time for that to happen. No mistake, this is a raging addict that has drug problems, he should not be allowed to teach children in my opinon.
norsegod88-I'm sure it may shock you to know but african doesn't automaticly mean black. I know, I know crack in a black school is about as shocking as a meth lab in your moms house, that is unless you already blew it up afer feeding your dirty kids a healthy meal of ketchup. Being a jerk is fun!
May 13, 2008
9:56 a.m.
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blondiearvada writes:
daddybit Get over the race card. Sick of hearing it. White charter schools make the news all the time! What about that whore teacher in Brighton?? That school has had three seperate incidents that made MAJOR news, but no one cried that it was because she was white. Come on. Yes, this would have made the news if he were black, white, brown or green.
May 13, 2008
10:05 a.m.
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Fisherman writes:
I have concerns about hiring crack addicts but I also have concerns about the "Ancient African Guiding Principles". Where do these come from? Which country in Africa and from what tribe? I did a search on the web and I can't find anything about these principles? Are they made-up?
May 13, 2008
10:34 a.m.
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OhBrother writes:
fisherman-not exactly sure what they teach there but this is probaly close;
"As a moral philosophy, Pan Africanism represents the aggregation of the historical, cultural, spiritual, artistic, scientific and philosophical legacies of Africans from past times to the present. Pan Africanism as an ethical system, traces its origins from ancient times, and promotes values that are the product of the African civilization and struggles against slavery, racism, colonialism, and neo-colonialism."
from what I gather they most likely teach a "form" of Pan-Africanism
May 13, 2008
10:48 a.m.
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Monica030 writes:
It's not like the guy was sharing his crack with the kids. Yeah he has some problems he needs to work out but who doesn't?
May 13, 2008
11:04 a.m.
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LuckyMe writes:
Monica030,
"It's not like the guy was sharing his crack with the kids. Yeah he has some problems he needs to work out but who doesn't?"
Are you kidding me? Is this the type of person you want interacting with your kids? I would think ANY parent would want better standards when it comes to school personnel for their children. As someone somewhere once said, Its a far better thing to be thought of as a fool than to open you mouth and be known as one.
May 13, 2008
11:07 a.m.
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Heidi writes:
LuckyMe, You took the words right out of my mouth!
May 13, 2008
11:10 a.m.
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Fisherman writes:
Thank you, OhBrother. But, given their school's performance against other Colorado schools and national ACTs, I would think they should concentrate less on teaching Guiding Principles, Pan Africanism studies and concentrate more on academics that will matter in choosing their career path. Principal Carolyn Jones should be fired for her miserable performance as principal rather than her hiring of a few crack addicts. The damage she's done by the poor education of her students is far, far worse.
May 13, 2008
11:32 a.m.
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roger44 writes:
There is plenty of blame to go round in all ethnic groups, get over it. I don't know how my generation, I'm 63, made it when we were mixed with all ethnic groups in schools, but then we were taught assimilation, not diversity. Need more jails like Sheriff Joe runs in AZ. They won't want to go back.
May 13, 2008
11:37 a.m.
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OhBrother writes:
no problem fisherman, that's just my guess at what they teach as I do not know exactly. I personaly wouldn't assume they don't concentrate on acadimics based only on standardized testing scores, but I know very little about charter school curriculum to begin with.
bropous-funny how you would bet anything on a subject you probaly know nothing about, but I'm sure plenty lose there shirts that way. How bout you read up on it and educate your self before you assume how evil it is. Question; do you view Jewish schools in the same light?
May 13, 2008
11:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
mrNiceGuy writes:
WOW! Colorado.....corruption, crime and negligence in the public schools, charter schools, police force, DA's office, judges, politicians, DHS....... and these are the people running the place. Go figure.
May 13, 2008
noon
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
CCI students, faculty and staff are here to share their thoughts and opinions on the story about the current situation with the school and also broadcast their point-of-views on youtube.com. Information on the youtube link will be given shortly. Thank you.
May 13, 2008
12:03 p.m.
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davies writes:
It is sad and disgusting the way some people are actually complaining about the deficiencies at this school being exposed. No one has said: What about these great teachers there? Or: What about these great results this school has had?
Nope, instead the rationalizing whiners say "this story is racist", or from another perspective "this is an unfair attack on charter schools". PEOPLE! THESE ARE SIMPLE CLEAR FACTS! Address the facts, and stop submitting your same old agenda in response to everything that happens.
May 13, 2008
12:07 p.m.
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seeingeyeseesall writes:
Charter Schools - they're "Public-Funded Private Schools" ... and race doesn't matter - google into the Stone Creek Charter School up in Vail sometime ... corruption top to bottom, the former principal embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars, the place is a complete joke ... tax $$ simply looted ... and not a black person for miles around that one to blame!
May 13, 2008
12:09 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
The caption is clearly taken out of context and is completely false. You can see a paper sign that is taped to the window of the classroom displaying the text "Quiet Please. Taping in Progress" directly under Dr. Jones' right arm.
We were in the process of filming an interview and the room was extremely quiet. In the photograph Dr. Jones is captured pointing into the classroom. However, contrary to the caption, she was sharing information with the photographer regarding our technology lab and what we were in the process of doing. From where I was standing I could hear nearly every word she was saying.
Shortly after the picture used for the article was taken Dr. Jones, the photographer Brian Lehmann, and a small group of students entered the room. Collectively, we crowded around a computer and a Senior, Ailey Pope, along with a few others, explained what assignments she and other students had been in the classroom working on.
The Rocky Mountain News, along with Channel 4, is clearly on a mission to drag our name through mud. The article and story that was published by the two media outlets contain irrelevant information and is a true representation of the current state of the media and how it thrives on negativity.
The photo, it's caption, and the stories in their entirety, are prime examples of bad reporting. Let this be a lesson: believe only half of what you see, read, and hear.
May 13, 2008
12:17 p.m.
Suggest removal
Heidi writes:
CCI seniors,
You may feel a need to defend the caption under Dr Jones' picture, but this story is not about that, and neither are the comments that follow.
May 13, 2008
12:23 p.m.
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StraightTalk writes:
cci_seniors_2008, you said "The photo, it's caption, and the stories in their entirety, are prime examples of bad reporting. Let this be a lesson: believe only half of what you see, read, and hear."
Congratulations!! You've caught on really quickly (you're just a senior in High School) to the "agenda-driven media." Unfortunately, their biased reporting isn't just limited to this one example.
So many adults are really gullible, and believe just about anything they see on the TV (newscasts) and in the newspaper.
May 13, 2008
12:25 p.m.
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davies writes:
CCI seniors: Ditto Heidi. I don't care about the caption, hadn't noticed it until you brought it up, and think that anyone who has attended high school would tend to think that an administrator that is protrayed as addressing two kids "goofing around" is perfectly normal and no big deal.
But I am very interested in what you have to say about the SERIOUS ISSUES RAISED IN THE STORY. PLEASE.
May 13, 2008
12:29 p.m.
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OhBrother writes:
bropous-my mistake, I should have know you were a subject mater expert on pan-africanism with your educated response. seems like your plaing the "race card" a little hard today, guess it goes both ways...
"Hebraic curricula are not inherently racist."
to you bropous, but does everyone think exactly like you? please provide details on how pan-africanism is inherently racist, I'm sure you have quite a few examples considering how much you know about the subject.
May 13, 2008
12:31 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Hi davies!
I had not noticed the caption, either, and really didn't derive anything negative from that. It is just as you said, "goofing around" is perfectly normal.
I am also curious as to how the students feel about the serious issues. "The stories in their entirety" may be bad reporting, but what about the stories in general?
May 13, 2008
12:40 p.m.
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OhBrother writes:
bropus-
"Who the heck CARES? What do some snot-nosed, wet-behind-the-ears, know-nothing punks have to add to this discussion?"
why in the world would they want to defend the school they attend? I mean that would show some sort of pride in themselves and the community, why on earth would they think that is the way to represent themselvs!?
then again, they think diffrently from you so why would you want to hear anything they say?
May 13, 2008
12:46 p.m.
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davies writes:
Hey Heidi. Sheesh! Saying that this story is an example of biased reporting due to the what, 'unfavorable' caption under the photo, is like saying that the reporting on the earthquake in China is biased against the Chinese, because the picture shows only the damage, not the undamaged areas. Just kind of ignores the main points of the story...
I still chuckle about the Brontosaurus ribs theory...
May 13, 2008
12:48 p.m.
Suggest removal
psu96 writes:
WHERE IS VUDUMOM AND PAJAMA AT???? no comment huh???
May 13, 2008
12:55 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
davies,
I faintly remember the brontosaurus ribs theory. I remember it had something to do with lowriders and the construction of fast food restaurants by ill-trained workers.
May 13, 2008
12:55 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
davies,
I faintly remember the brontosaurus ribs theory. I remember it had something to do with lowriders and the construction of fast food restaurants by ill-trained workers.
May 13, 2008
1:07 p.m.
Suggest removal
cci_seniors_2008 writes:
I am reading all of the comments, and one thing comes to mind. There are so many teachers at this school who are excellent, positive, caring and giving individuals, who are being overshadowed by this story.
I am especially disappointed by the picture of Dr. Jones pointing into the room with the caption that she is pointing to students who are "goofing off." I was in the room at the time when student Dominique Houston had just finished taping his senior interview for use in a senior video production. Another student who you can see in the picture was sitting and waiting his turn. If you look at the picture closely, Dr, Jone's hand is barely covering a sign that says, "Quiet, taping in progress...Thank you!" Another question you might ask in looking at this picture is – does Dr. Jones look angry? Brian Lehmann then followed Dr. Jones into the room where he spent time with students who where excited to share their accomplishments with him. He seemed genuinely excited to spend time with them as well. It is very sad that he betrayed the student’s trust in this way.
How is Mr. Lehmann’s betrayal of the student’s trust any different then the allegations being made against CCI? Perhaps it’s just semantics. Dominique was upset when he saw his picture along with the caption that Mr. Lehmann focused on to represent our school. Another student observed that while the seniors where sharing with him, he never documented any positive things that could have added balance to the story. Clearly that was not his intention. Dominique is one of many excellent students at CCI who has worked very hard and resent that the media is implicating that they have not earned their grades.
Who will hold the media accountable for being completely truthful? Not claiming to be a perfect school, but definitely not deserving of this kind of media onslaught. I hope that anyone reading the stories will remember; there are 3 sides to every story, your version, my version and the truth!
May 13, 2008
1:07 p.m.
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davies writes:
Well, I thought it was quite profound - better than most of the stuff being posted here. My guess is that our CCI seniors are withholding further comment, possibly until Ms. Jones has more for them to say?
May 13, 2008
1:16 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
I'm currently in the 10 grade here at C.C.I., and I can just say that I take pride in my school no matter what we go against. I started attending C.C.I. my freshman year and, I just am so, amazed at how we have grown. The students that attend CCI are very smart although many of the students that go here have been through a struggle. As an African American I have realized that we're always put down or stereotyped. You can't judge a book by its cover so, why are you guys judging us. You don't know anything about our school or how much we had to fight in order to get to where we're at right now. Ignorance will do you no justice. At CCI we're a family; we see past the mistakes that people have made. No one is perfect. CCI is moving on up; you can try to break us down, throw false information to the media but, we will always be on top no matter what.
May 13, 2008
1:17 p.m.
Suggest removal
cci_seniors_2008 writes:
Mr. OhBrother is another fine example of ignorance at it's finest. A lot of meaningless comments about something he doesn't understand... very typical. I'll say that and bypass anything else he has to say.
May 13, 2008
1:19 p.m.
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davies writes:
OK CCI seniors, thank you very much. When I first read this story I was incensed that two students may have been reprimanded for goofing off; I am so grateful that you cleared that matter up.
Let's see, I also vaguely recall something about the assistant principal having been arrested 10 times, something about a half million dollar loan of taxpayer funds to a private entity, a few issues with the backgrounds of some other persons, but whatever. As long as no kids ever goof off a little at your school, everything is just fine.
You're right, bias in the media is everywhere. Where are the pictures and text describing the buildings in China that did NOT collapse during the earthquake?
May 13, 2008
1:20 p.m.
Suggest removal
Bagel writes:
Methinks you don't understand sarcasm.
May 13, 2008
1:21 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
cci seniors,
Please don't let the picture and the caption bother you. And Dominique, that does not reflect on you as far as I am concerned. As far as the claim that some students may not have earned their grades, the article states that a former employee is making that accusation. Hopefully, after further investigation, that will not prove true.
What we want to know is how you feel about having educators and other staff members with serious criminal records. And what are your thoughts on the alledged financial abuse?
May 13, 2008
1:22 p.m.
Suggest removal
Ashley writes:
Leaving aside the politics of charter schools and racism, neither of which are particularly connected to this story, this is darn serious business. Kudos to the whistle-blower, and let's just let the investigation run its course.
May 13, 2008
1:28 p.m.
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ToriEllis007 writes:
CCI Seniors: Completely on your side, but the story isnt about the caption and how bad the students are, its about the bad choice in hiring your principal made.
May 13, 2008
1:31 p.m.
Suggest removal
psu96 writes:
bropous..
"minor, trivial, and not really germaine to the discussion" like most of your comments including your last one.
May 13, 2008
1:31 p.m.
Suggest removal
ToriEllis007 writes:
Also, bropous, what is your problem, seriously??
May 13, 2008
1:33 p.m.
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CaptainObvious writes:
Well, this story certainly doesn't help those arguing in favor of charter schools.
And no, it's not an "attack on charter schools" as dadinlittleton seems to think--the story doesn't need to attack at all; the charter school and its emplyees don't need any help in making themselves look horrible. They've done a fine job of that all by themselves.
May 13, 2008
1:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
Heidi writes:
bropous, you are getting a little carried away and offensive but I had to laugh at:
"It doesn't say "pointing to a room where the chaos of misbehaving obvious crack-dealing gang members who probably sold William Brown all of his crack", now did it? No, it was pretty non-offensive."
May 13, 2008
1:42 p.m.
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MaxInEnglewood writes:
Wow bropous needs to get laid like ASAP. Also, where in the story do you see anything about Pan-Africanism? From what I saw, a fellow forum member brought it up and you just kind of ran with it. Also, try googling Pan-Africanism or looking it up in Wikipedia, you'll learn the true meaning of it.
May 13, 2008
1:45 p.m.
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davies writes:
Don't pay attention to bropous; he is almost always bitter.
Many of us are interested in what the CCI students have to say. I appreciate their comments indicating that they value their school and their education. So far they have made a few valid points, while some other points have been a little nit-picky and/or avoiding the real issues, such as:
Is your assistant principal a crackhead or not? Would he pass a drug test today? If he is guilty of using crack, do you support his firing or do you think he should stay and continue to have oversight of your own behavior? Does he still deserve your respect? Should the ten arrests have been enough of a warning that something bad may happen someday? Are you not disappointed that his conduct has contributed to all this negative attention to your school? Do you think Ms. Jones really had no idea about any of the ten arrests?
May 13, 2008
1:50 p.m.
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happymike44 writes:
First of all anger and racial hatred should be kept out of the schools.First of all it is detrimental to the well being of all of our children.School is the one place we should be helping to end our racial differences.I think the very hope of our country is to pu aside this anger between us.But when a group will not let the past be put behind them.How do they ever expect to move forward.It is in the best interest of children rich or poor to help them. Be the best that they can ever achieve in this world.This anger and hatred is destructive to a child during it's formidable years.Please try to put the kids first,and the crap and anger second.It will not be recieved in a good way what I have put out there for all to see.But if we could just help each other maybe the world would and could change for the better.
May 13, 2008
1:53 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
davies, yes, let's get to the point. It helps to have specific questions for them to answer.
The students are not on trial here, but they should have concerns on the quality of education they are receiving. No one should settle for sub-standard treatment. On the other hand, they should not demand preferential treatment, either.
May 13, 2008
2:03 p.m.
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davies writes:
happymike44: I'm surprised; you usually sound pretty darn UNhappy. The word you wanted was "formative", not formidable, but otherwise I support your message. It's too bad a few people use every excuse or opportunity to bash one certain group or another. It's too bad we have "black" charter schools and (I assume) "white" charter schools for that matter.
But I must continue to take issue with blame deflectors, hypocrites and rationalizers. They suck!
May 13, 2008
2:13 p.m.
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Lori00 writes:
What are we teaching the kids in the "public schools"? Why are we not teaching them how to live in the world, giving them life skills? Teaching them logic?
Why are corporate websites spending time on the obvious (like put in the CD label side up)(apparently its because what's obvious, isn't really obvious).
I thought desegregation in schools was a thing of the past. Why is this type of school allowed as a charter school?
May 13, 2008
2:13 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
I'm am also a CCI senior. I was actually the boy in the background sitting down in the chair. I know this post isn't about the seniors or the students, but those are our teachers. I know for a fact that our assistant principal is not a crack addict. I have been going to CCi since we were on Colfax in the little building. They media never messed with us then. Or when we were at the bigger building in Lowry. They never messed with us then. It wasn't until we were able to get our own state of the art building, that they decided to target us. I mean, how come the media can't write about how talented our students and staff are. We worked so hard to show he reporter how talented and special some of the students and staff are. Some of the seniors even tried to get to know the reporter. For him to just go and go against everything we did. He didn't even write how we gave him a first class tour.
May 13, 2008
2:16 p.m.
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Fisherman writes:
OhBrother - Are you saying Pan African studies are connected to the "Ancient African Guiding Principles" of which CCI follows? Pan African studies are connected to Malcolm X, Muammar Gaddafi, Hugo Chavez, Maulana Karenga among others and possibly to the Reverend Wright. Do you want Principal Carolyn Jones's students learning principles from the likes of these people? What kind of school is this? And we are worried about a few crackheads?
May 13, 2008
2:17 p.m.
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OhBrother writes:
cci_seniors_2008
you can by pass my comments if you like but I was actualy defnding your right to post on this site from bropus. He/she seemed to be under the impression that you shouldn't voice your opinion, that what you guys say doesn't matter.
I also stated Pan-Africanism was MAYBE what you guys are taught a VERSION of, given the details in the article. I only stated this becuase a poster here couldn't locate anything about the african morals being taught and I thought it may be a start. Then bropuss gets all sad becuase I didn't think exactly like he/she and we started going back and forth wich is probaly where you jumped in.
I stand by my words, crackhead teacher with 10 pops in the last few years = bad (my opinon based on article, not personal) kids that want to defend themselvs and school = good.
May 13, 2008
2:20 p.m.
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holekeeper writes:
cci seniors,
How do you know for a fact that he is not a crack head, these people hide from thier own family. Sorry, I like charter schools but the hiring there is a joke. I am glad you like your school but you principal should have thought of what could happen when she decided to disregard the contract with DPS and not conduct background checks. Its not just the Asst. Principal but all of the other workers also.
May 13, 2008
2:21 p.m.
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daddyblt writes:
This is in regard to blondiearvada's response about the race card: Well it is obvious that you are probably white and female...it really does not matter at this point because you really don't have the foggiest clue about what it is like to be racially profiled or looked at different because of the color of your skin. You can say all day long that it is no differnt, but when the day is over and it is all said and done, there is a tremendous difference in how these situations are viewed within our own community! The report on the news said that the kids in CCI are disadvantaged and come from very negative backgrounds, but what kids don't in this day and age? Most kids today are disadvantaged. However, it is our kids that get profiled and treated harsh. Whether you like it or not blondiearvada, there is a differene! And I do agree with you that it would have made the news if it had been white, black, green, red or brown. However, when it is black or brown it is just different. I am sure if you were black or brown you would understand it better!!!
May 13, 2008
2:21 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
CCI Senior at 2:13,
I'm sorry if the media deceived you. That's the media! Or shall I say, so as to not stereotype, that's part of the media!
But how do you know for a fact that your assistant principal is not a crack addict? If you don't think he is an addict, but smokes it or buys it for someone else, does that make it okay?
May 13, 2008
2:24 p.m.
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mrNiceGuy writes:
CCI SENIORS:
PLEASE....do yourselves a favor and don't participate in these juvenile (even for high school students) discussions. Ask yourselves, who are we really debating with? What kind of adults spend their days anonymously debating with each other about every different topic presented in the paper? And finally, how much knowledge can said adults have about such vast and unrelated topic matters? Be the more mature ones, and let this go...for your own sanity.
May 13, 2008
2:24 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
Dear OhBrother - Sorry that was directed at bropus... just learned another life lesson. It doesn't pay to get mad and lash out because you may hurt the wrong person.
May 13, 2008
2:27 p.m.
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davies writes:
Well, I give up CCI seniors. No, the story didn't mention the first class tour you gave the reporter. Gosh, isn't that just the kind of news everyone wants to read? A first class tour of the school! And OK then, if your assistant principal is not a crack addict, then I guess it's fine if he does partake of a little now and then, wink wink, nudge nudge. Sigh.
May 13, 2008
2:33 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
mrNiceGuy, you are so right, but just one last immature statement, please??? Before bropus gives us any grammar lessons, ask him to learn how to spell. He has quite a few grammatical errors of his own. And OhBrother, I hope you'll accept our apology. Admitting when we are wrong is something we have learned to do at CCI...
May 13, 2008
2:33 p.m.
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OhBrother writes:
bropus-there's my proof of what? that a kid has an opinion? why would you assume the kids opinon is based only on what is taught in school? why does everything tie back to rev. Wright, is he the only source of racsism and twisted logic in the world today in your opinon?
fishermen- I made a SUGGESTION of what they COULD be teaching, why don't you ask the kids what it is they are taught exactly, if it so intrest you? Why is everyone getting so upset about the Pan African refrence? I personaly have no issue with it nor Malcolm X, Muammar Gaddafi, Hugo Chavez, Maulana but i NEVER stated that this is 100% what they are taught in that school or any.
May 13, 2008
2:39 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
These are the Ancient African Guiding Principles. They are not taught in a classroom situation as some of you may think, but from an example and expectation standpoint. They are universal principles that have impacted all cultures for hundreds of years.
Reciprocity -The belief that there exists a cause and effect relationship in the world. The choices one makes consciously and subconsciously - good and bad - impact our life's journey.
Propriety Behaving appropriately in any given situation - living one's life in a manner that is uplifting to self and others.
Justice - The belief that each individual has a responsibility to fight to eliminate oppression and intolorence wherever it is found.
Order - The belief that everything in the universe is as it should be. Life that is lived in accordance with universal guiding principles will find abundance and satisfaction.
Balance - The belief that everything in the universe has a reason for being and that all things are interrelated. To live a balanced life, one must balance his/her own needs and wants with those of other living beings. One's behavior must create stability within the total environment.
Truth - The belief that living in accordance with the guiding principles causes one to be open to a wide range of knowledge in the world, and through this knowledge, truth will be revealed.
Purpose - The belief that each person has a mission and that this mission leads to one's purpose in life. Finding purpose in life requires developing one's talents and using them to the fullest to make the world a better place. Purpose requires sharing one's own gifts and assisting others in the way of development of their talents without envy, and without getting in the way of the other person's life mission.
May 13, 2008
2:44 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
Gee bropous - what is a drivel?
May 13, 2008
2:49 p.m.
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MaxInEnglewood writes:
Ok, seriously CCI Seniors and bropous its time to stop now.
May 13, 2008
2:53 p.m.
Suggest removal
holekeeper writes:
cci seniors,
Truth, you Asst.Prin. is addicted to crack
Reciprocity, He made a chioce to smoke and buy crack and now he has no job.
Order, Your school is on probation due to changing grades.
Justice, Hopefully you get a new principal who cares about the school and not hiring relitives of employees.
Balance, The reason this storey came out today is so you can be saved from those trying to harm you for thier own good or bad habits.
Purpose, Your Asst. Prin. purpose after work was to buy crack cocaine.
May 13, 2008
2:53 p.m.
Suggest removal
cci_seniors_2008 writes:
It is very funny how people who have never been to our school, seen it, or even met any of our students has so much to say.
May 13, 2008
2:54 p.m.
Suggest removal
OhBrother writes:
CCI kids-no problem, your apology isn't needed but it is accepted! you guys didn't offend me I just didn't want you to be under the impression that everyone has a view like bropus. People assume very quickly and in doing so often neglect the positive aspects of the whole picture. Bropus doesn't offend me either, people are entitled to there opinions and should be able to voice them regardless if they differ from my own. however how you voice them is probaly just as important, that is if actualy want your opinon to be valued.
May 13, 2008
2:58 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
bropous: "Sentence fragment." is a sentence fragment!
May 13, 2008
3:02 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
WOW, BY GOLLY, how quick the world is so ready to judge based on their lack of knowledge of other people's lives, experiences, history. Sounds like there's a lot of people who love to devour reality tv show type drama. Let me just say, as a student, we not here to judge our elders (and their way of life, mistakes, flaws, shortcomings, etc.), but here to learn from them (mistakes included) and grow. If I were to spend my time consumed with other people's problems/drama, I would probably not graduate from this institution (one I know is hardly perfect and one I have chosen to remain a part of until I graduate, regardless of certain deficiencies) that has taken me into their arms and is currently helping me to become the great, loving, compassionate person that I am working everyday in my life to become. So, yes, let the law do its justice (including the universal law), but do us young people the favor, the justice of not dwelling on just the negative. BY GOLLY, it's regressive!!!!!
CCI SENIORS CLOSING OUT...I THINK......BE BLESSED
May 13, 2008
3:04 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
What I have learned from bropous... There are still people in this world who are filled with hatred. Thank you mr bropous for proving to me that this world still has a far distance to travel. One thing I am grateful for is that I have been taught to not take to heart the words of people who don't know me. Mr. bropous, you are confirmation to the dark hearts that still exist today. thank you and have a great evening.
May 13, 2008
3:07 p.m.
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Fisherman writes:
OhBrother,
You have no problem with Gaddafi or Chavez? Hmm? Well, I hope Pan Africanism isn't taught in this school. I don't know why you mentioned it when I ask you where the Ancient African Guiding Priniples came from.
CCI Seniors,
Why are these labeled Ancient African Guiding Principles if you say, "They are universal principles that have impacted all cultures for hundreds of years". Why throw in that they are African when they are not?
May 13, 2008
3:12 p.m.
Suggest removal
cci_seniors_2008 writes:
Well this is one of the seniors. Well i just want to say as far as i can see it, some of you will not change your mind anytime soon. So why bother. Because there is a difference between us and the others. we are here at CCi. I have actually got to know some of the people you are talking about. Crack or no crack Bill is a good person. It's to close to graduation for me to be worried about everyone else's opinion. In the end CCI always prevails. This isn't the first time the school has gone through this type of issue. The thing is i'm already graduating, and i'm already accepted into college. And to be exact all of us are graduating and going to college. No matter what you say. I'm always around good people when i come to school, and i know the truth. The thing that makes me so happy, is that we will all graduate from college as well. We will also go into careers that will keep us busy enough not be online going back and forth with students. And i am through.
May 13, 2008
3:18 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
Different cultures may refer to these principles in their own way. An example would be what some people Karma - others call reciprocity and still someone else may refer to the law of reaping and sowing. It just all depends on a person's overall belief system. More emphasis should be placed on the value.
May 13, 2008
3:29 p.m.
Suggest removal
EarlArmstrong writes:
-----Original Message-----
From: viewerfeedback@cbslocal.com [mailto:viewerfeedback@cbslocal.com]
Sent: Tuesday, April 29, 2008 7:25 AM
To: Maass, Brian
Subject: Suggestion - Maass, Brian
Bill of Rights: Amendment V Rights of an Accused Person
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a grand jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia, when in actual service in time of war or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
Brian,
I really would like to suggest that you consider the Constitution of America as you participate in this witch hunt against CCI. Read and understand the Fifth Amendment word-for-word and truly analyze and interpret rather CCI is wrong for giving American citizens a second chance, or if the Colorado Bureau of Investigations is violating the rights of previously accused citizens in their (mis)management of criminal backgrounds?
According to the Constitution any crime that has not been proven by a judge or jury cannot be used to deny an American citizen life, liberty, and the pursuit of property. However, the CBI lists everything that you have been accused of without a conviction to disenfranchise one from life. The Colorado Department of Education on the otherhand recognizes and acknowledges this constitutional right. They provide for anyone that has been convicted of a felony to have a hearing to determine if they have rehabilitated and are of good moral character to contribute to society. They also do not prevent you from employment for misdemeanor offenses because they are not capital offenses. Thus your story is truly off focus, and represents the assault on our civil rights and liberties that have been afforded to all of us by OUR founding fathers that is presently popular by the conservative right.
Finally, I must ask you am I an American? Does my criminal background deny me my constitutional rights? If I am not an American because of a criminal background then why should I live here, and even try to be productive? Would it be better that individuals like me just become terrorists, because OUR former country rebukes and disenfranchises us from the same freedoms and liberties that all Americans should enjoy and enact? I don't think so, and will continue to persevere as I participate in the education of OUR children.
May 13, 2008
3:30 p.m.
Suggest removal
EarlArmstrong writes:
> Subject: RE: Suggestion - Maass, Brian
> Date: Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:17:14 -0700
> From: BMaass@cbs.com
> To: blackandbrownexpress@msn.com
>
> Earl-
> thanks for getting in touch, and for sharing your thoughts. At this
> point we are in the research stage of a story, and nothing has been
> written or reported yet. So its probably premature to make too many
> assumptions.
> I would however dispute your characterization of a 'witch hunt'.
>
> While you may think our story is 'off focus', it was interesting that in
> speaking with Dr. Jones last Friday, she acknowledged some mistakes had
> been made in some hires, and she would not make some of the same hires
> again, given more information up front.
>
> Don't get me wrong- I think some of your points are well taken. However
> there are some legitimate public policy issues here: should taxpayers
> pay for a sex offender to work in a school? Should we pay for people
> with lengthy criminal records(much more than just a second chance) to be
> around our kids?
>
> I'm sorry that exploring these issues is offensive to you, but I also
> understand where you are coming from.
> I'll take this opportunity to offer you the chance to sit down and be
> interviewed, if you would like.
>
> Thank you again for your perspective, and let me know about the
> interview.
>
> Brian Maass
May 13, 2008
3:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
EarlArmstrong writes:
From: Earl Armstrong
Brian,
I truly would like to know in what capacity do you work with inner city youth to designate them as your children? These are not your children, nor are they the taxpayer's whom you are referring to children. These are our children. Many of our students come from poverty, broken homes, and families that are strived by the plagues of drugs, gangs, criminality, and many other debilitating social issues. Many of these children's parents are unemployed, incarcerated, and not in the category of taxpayers. Another group of are parents despite being taxpayers are overcoming many of the same obstacles as well being that these drudges are in their community. As a result, our children need instruction and discipline from individuals in whom they can relate too. When you bring a teacher from White suburbia in the inner city to work with our children, many of these teachers are detached and disconnected from our children's complicated experiences. Thus, they interact with our children in a manner that alienates and invalidates the student's personal experience. The end result of this scenario is what we presently see in Denver Public Schools, and many other large inner city school districts across the country, where African American and other non-White students are dropping-out of school before graduation. This phenomenon is occurring because our children in the inner city have no connection to a curriculum and instructor that alienates who they are. Even worse, the drop-out rate fails to reflect the number of our children who are attending school and classes, but have psychologically dropped out by not doing any work or attempting to excel due to institutional racism embedded in the educational institutions of America. Therefore, since Denver Public Schools, and other school districts that are failing African American and minority students, are not getting the job done in educating our children, then why not give individuals from those students' background the opportunity to do what others can't and haven't achieved?
I really do not get your reference to public policy issues if you read the Fifth Amendment I provided to you word-for-word. Like most of the conservative right your point completely diminishes and invalidates the legal protection provided by law to accuse persons. What you all need to do is completely remove this amendment from the Constitution because you all are making it null regardless.
May 13, 2008
3:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
EarlArmstrong writes:
Now, I will grant that a sex offender might be a problematic hire. However, if an individual with a criminal background has rehabilitated themselves, and has passed through the channels to prove such, then why shouldn't he or she be allowed the opportunity to pursue any career of their choosing? The upside of such a hire is that the individual who has had to prove themselves worthy of hire come with a knowledge of who they are and what they have done. Thus, that individual is bound to be monitored and on edge to not make a mistake due to this. On the other hand, the individual that has not had to prove him/herself and go through all of this scrutiny is an unknown problem and potential threat. We see this time-and-time again like the teacher from North High School that was housing and molesting Mexican immigrant boys and the teacher in Brighton that was carrying on a sexual affair with a student. These were what you would have called upstanding citizens before their crimes, but no one could have predicted their motives and intentions. So I do believe that people like myself should have the luxury of pursuing whatever objective they desire if they have the credentials to do so.
As for a witch hunt. Your story is based strictly on information provided by an individual that stole classified information after being fired from CCI. Due to this, your story is centrally focused on our beloved institution. You are not looking to see what is the prevalence of people with criminal backgrounds working in school districts on a whole. I am more than willing to bet that there are school districts across this state that have individuals with the same backgrounds provided to you. That is the central purpose of the hearing process with the Colorado Department of Education, and I am sure that many of those individuals like myself who went through this avenue are now employed somewhere. This is why I am charging your story as a witch hunt. I challenge you to go to Denver Public Schools, Cherry Creek, Jeffco, Colorado Springs, and other school districts to ask them to provide you with the same evidence you have on CCI, and I promise these districts will not comply due to the classified nature of this information. What needs to be done is a criminal investigation of your source for violating confidentiality rules and laws.
Once again I ask you, Am I an American?
May 13, 2008
3:35 p.m.
Suggest removal
EarlArmstrong writes:
RE: Suggestion - Maass, Brian
From: Earl Armstrong (blackandbrownexpress@msn.com)
Sent: Tue 5/06/08 8:24 PM
To: Maass, Brian (bmaass@cbs.com)
If I had any trust that your story would be fair, balanced, and accurate I would do the interview in a heartbeat. However, your story seeks to deny opportunities to individuals who are trying to overcome obstacles created by their criminal pasts, and impose barriers through public policy appeals. I am not interested in being your poster child for your story as you slam me, and anyone like me. We already have it hard enough trying to live the American dream honestly.
Additionally, if your story was aimed at addressing the issue of individuals that are teaching with criminal backgrounds throughout the state and all districts, I would be more than willing. However, this story is focused on bringing down the only public school in the state of Colorado whose mission is to lower the acheivement gap between African American children and children from the hegomonic group. I will not participate in a story whose objective is so narrow and slanted.
Finally, when will the violations by the Colorado Bureau of Investigations to the 5th Amendment of the Bill of Rights ever be addressed? You have cities like Aurora that purge their records after seven years like the Constitution upholds. However these records can be purged and the CBI will still maintain these records without the ability to retrieve the dispositions from the individual county making the charge. Moreover, the failure to list dispositions on a persons CBI report makes an individual look guilty of everything that's on the report. Combine this with the practice of leaving cases that have been dismissed or no charges filed on an individuals record and the 5th Amendment is reduced to tissue paper. When will these hard facts be addressed by any media? They probably won't because once you have been given a criminal background in this part of the country you are no longer an American!
Earl
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: RE: Suggestion - Maass, Brian
Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 10:08:58 -0700
From: BMaass@cbs.com
To: blackandbrownexpress@msn.com
Earl-
one more attempt- would you like to sit down and talk on camera with me?
Brian Maass
May 13, 2008
3:37 p.m.
Suggest removal
cci_seniors_2008 writes:
I am a student at CCI and I'm 12 years old. I feel upset because, this school particularly made a change in my life because i used to get (C`s) but, now i`m an (A) student. You have not seen or, know half the stuff we've been through. i know more then 8 people or, more that have been through some situations that you haven't gone through.
May 13, 2008
4:01 p.m.
Suggest removal
Finding_Forever writes:
Wow, if thats the Earl Armstrong I know of, then the reputation of CCI is truly doomed. Everytime there is a news camera in the Black community or a news story relevant to the Black community that has the potential for a decent amount of camera time, the Earl Armstrong im thinking of, along with Alvertis Simmons aren't too far behind. As a black woman, I do not think this story is a "witch hunt" or anything like that. Brian Maas simply did his job and exposed the schools administration for what it really is. I attended CCI for a semester while I was in high school and I hated it, and it wasnt because of the curriculum (which is really good). Props to Principal Jones for getting a bigger and better building, but that does very little for the situation if you have perverts and yipheads running it.
May 13, 2008
4:26 p.m.
Suggest removal
CaptainObvious writes:
What is your point Earl? Or is this just more attempted distraction from the fact that this school fell on its face?
May 13, 2008
4:47 p.m.
Suggest removal
holekeeper writes:
Records indicate that Brown pleaded no contest to possession of drug paraphernalia
This is basically a guilty plea and it is on your record, so that stupid argument you put out there earl dosent fly. Oh yea that crap you spewed about hiring criminals so they can connect with the kids HA, why dont you get real role models like the ones that grew up in bad areas that were able to get out without joining a gang and commiting crimes that might really inspire the kids to do the right thing.
May 13, 2008
5:25 p.m.
Suggest removal
3dogsand1devilcat writes:
Earl – what kind of person would want to argue that CBI should wipe one’s slate clean of arrests… ESPECIALLY in the context of those who may be working with children? Apparently you believe it’s perfectly reasonable for a man with numerous police contacts for drug related offenses to be working in this capacity because “our children need instruction and discipline from individuals in whom they can relate too”. To suggest that a criminal who can’t keep away from his crack pipe is an acceptable role model and leader for “your” kids is an insult to the African-American community. I appreciate the fact that the students want to stand by him - perhaps he's a great person, albeit a great person with a drug problem... who needs rehab... who, because of his drug problem and numerous arrests, should not be be allowed to work this capacity. Yes, people make "mistakes", but people who make such mistakes lose the privilege of working with our children - no matter what their race.
May 13, 2008
5:34 p.m.
Suggest removal
oneofthemany writes:
Im not writting this to get anybod on the schools side, but i am one of the seniors graduating from CCI this year and i am going to attend college this up coming fall. Yes people can say this and that about the school but let me ak you a question if somebody told me you was something you wasntand then i started passing judgement about you and i dont even know you you would be highly upset so why would you do it to us you havent walked the hall at CCI and see how it is yeah we might have some teachers and students the does this and that but they dont bring into the building what they do on the streets its their problem im not saying its right but it is their life. Life is crazy how somebody could bring you down but somethig so little but dont bring you up for the good i dont see the news coming out because most of the seniors are going to college or im a graduating a year early with above a 3.0 gpa or the school brings the kids back that wanted to give up im just saying look at it both ways
May 13, 2008
5:55 p.m.
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EarlArmstrong writes:
Once again 3dog, you fail to adhere and acknowledge that the Fifth Amendment to the Bill of Rights gives citizens that have been accused the right to reintegrate into society. In the 5th Amendment it clearly lays-out that an individual can only have a crime held against them if the crime has been proven guilty through a jury or a judge. If a case that has been dismissed or no charges have been filed then that charge should not be placed on your criminal background according to the Constitution. Many states uphold the Constitution, however Colorado does not when it comes to this matter. I can tell that you agree with this practice because far too many people from your persausion feel as if you are the judge and jury just like during the lynching period when you would pull an accused from the jail and hang him/her over a barbeque without a trial. Brother Bill is presently experiencing yall's modern day form of lynching, because all of the charges you are talking about have been dismissed.
May 13, 2008
6:13 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
To all other seniors from cci, please do not respond to mr bropous. The only thing you can learn from him is what not to be, how not to act and how not to address other people. He is a grammar teacher who cannot spell. While there are many things to learn, please do not look to him for any examples, other than what not to be. Any further comments he may have, please ignore them. If he sees anyone as racist, he sees it through his own racist filters. Typically, people see the world based on how they see themselves.
May 13, 2008
6:46 p.m.
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cci_seniors_2008 writes:
Again students, cci, please do not respond to mr. bropous. He doesn't know anything about our school or what is taught here. He may possess a little knowledge about a few things, but is completely lacking in wisdom, of which if he had any, he would find out exactly what is taught at CCI before putting his ignorance on full display. Don't worry about his attack on our comments, most people who blog do so in a more relaxed environment just to share their thoughts. Maybe they think we're missing the point, but that really all depends on the angle from which you view this situation. From a student's viewpoint, it is about the students. This all touches our lives profoundly. There are excellent role models at this school, although they did not make the news.
May 13, 2008
7:01 p.m.
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EarlArmstrong writes:
Bropous,
I will not respond to your racist laden posts. I agree students, great job of defending your school and family here at CCI.
May 13, 2008
7:04 p.m.
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3dogsand1devilcat writes:
Earl – My “