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

Published May 12, 2008 at 8:18 p.m.
Updated May 13, 2008 at 1:21 p.m.

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Photo by 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.

Photo by 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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Comments

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

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

8:52 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Suggest removal

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 “persuasion”? What? I guess my persuasion is that I’m in a group of individual’s who’ve never been arrested for smokin’ crack in an alley. This is about a man with MULTIPLE drug offenses working in a school. Sorry Earl, but ALL kids deserve better than this - not just the kids in whitebread America.

Oneofthemany – I can’t speak for anyone else here, but I did not think that this story cast the STUDENTS of CCI in a bad light. I think you and some of your fellow students have a misperception of what’s being said (by the majority of posters, at least) and who is being criticized. I’m glad that CCI has helped you become a better student and that you’re going on to college. You have every right to be proud of your accomplishments and to tell us what this school has meant for you. However, I simply cannot agree with you that “what they do on the streets its their problem im not saying its right but it is their life”. No. Not when it comes to those hired to be in a position of trust. Individuals who make “mistakes” often lose privileges – as is the case here. There is no getting around the fact that there are consequences for the choices we make in life. Perhaps you and your friends will remember this as a “life lesson” and choose better for yourselves. I wish you all the best in college. Dream big!
May 13, 2008

7:40 p.m.

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cci_seniors_2008 writes:

3dogsand1devilcat

We get it. Maybe it's just that Mr. Brown has always encouraged us to dream big. He has pushed us to do the right things, even if maybe he didn't. That's the person we experienced. That's why we still love him. It doesn't mean we are going to make the same mistakes. It doesn't mean that we will not hold him accountable, because we are taught to be accountable. It just means that we don't see him as the public sees him because he have seen his positive side over and over again. We do not see ourselves as victims. We are growing up and moving on and when this is all over, I know we will be that much wiser. Thanks for your encouragement.
May 13, 2008

9:22 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

I am so glad to see that the students of CCI are standing up to voice their opinions about the overall situation concerning their school. I feel that this alone is representation of what the kids of CCI are being taught...to have a voice and to let that voice be heard! I think that most of us understand that this article and all of the other reports surrounding it are for the purpose of making the public aware of the situation. However, I wish that there were better ways that the negative could be balanced out with the positives. Regardless of what certain people within the school have done, there are still many good things that obviously come out of the school. Many people probably did not even know of CCI until the negative reports began to surface about the school. Now the only thing that will rest in many people's minds are the negatives that they have heard. I urge those who don't know anything but the negatives to search a bit harder to see what is actually GOOD about the school as well. Good job CCI seniors, students and other supporters for letting your voices be heard!
May 13, 2008

10:03 p.m.

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FEDUP writes:

You know, pulling out the “race card” just doesn’t seem to bear much weight these days. I know a man who confessed openly to pulling out the “race card” as an excuse every time he assaulted a patient, and this is how he got out of being held responsible for a long time. Just pull out the “race card”, and you get a free pass and get to “pass-go” and “people back way off!” “They don’t mess with you then!”. As he confessed to what he did to a patient. Just throw in the “race” thing. Many more people have suffered at the hands of this man, because he claimed to be the victim of prejudice.

There has to come a time where we stop “pulling out the race card” on each and every instance and for people to stop using the “race card” as some sort of defense for their actions and to get out of responsibility for their actions.

We have to love our children enough to stop teaching them to use this excuse as a “reaction to everything”, and instead teach them to simply respect people no matter what or who they are and that they will be held as responsible as the next person for their actions regardless of their color, creed, or station in life. But the next problem is…….then we actually have to do that, ourselves…………and that’s the real challenge.
May 13, 2008

10:32 p.m.

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DarianH writes:

My name was not mentioned in the editorial on this site, nor was my name mentioned on KCNC 4 website. However my face and name was mentioned on the news broadcast. Much to my suprise after reviewing the broadcast myself I had lots of mixed emotions. If you have watched the video there is something I would like you to pay attention to. There were 5 males listed in this investigation, the contents of 4 of the males backgrounds were listed on the news, but for some reason what my actual convictions are were not detailed. So i decided to email th reporter and ask him why this was his reply "Its not as long as others,AND not knowwhere as serious as others but obviously not 'clean' either. I will admitt no its not cleasn, I will take this time for inquiring mines and let you know, I have driving with out a valid operators license a few times and I have a forgery misdemenor. In which I wrote a check on my own bank account and it bounced therefore I was charged with forgery. That information was made public knowledge to the school and it is not something that I hide. There are other things that I was charged with that were thrown out and dismissed by Colorados District Attorney. So, I ask why was I profiled with those that have felony convictions for armed robbery, theft, larceny, and sex assault. It was stated and made very clear that Bill Brown was charged with a crime but it was DISMISSED and he was not convicted of it. SO why is it being held against him. We all have things that people have accused us of but all it is, is someone trying to place blame. If the Colorados District Attorneys office has dropped the charges why is it okay to still hold something over someones head.

CCI is not some school that is holding and training criminals. Its a place that gives people second chances, in which society has turned there backs on already, weither its students or adults. This article profiled 5 black males that where given a chance to work that may not of had that opportunity anywhere else. This article did not mention how CCI helped students graduate that society turned away, or how they instealing respect and discipline into the youth of today. Did not mention how teachers are working at CCI for less than what they could make somewhere else cause they want to give back to the urban community. I would not say that this issue needs to be overlooked, BUT it should be investigated from all ends. Things are not always as they seem
May 14, 2008

9:25 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

bropous,
I like how you are presenting yourself and your ideals today.
May 14, 2008

10:38 a.m.

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mrNiceGuy writes:

Brop - Are you really STILL bashing a bunch of kids!? Get a life loser! Maybe you can find yourself a job (other than verbally abusing children online) where you can apply your vast (yet virtually useless) knowledge of the application of the English language.

People such as myself move to homeschooling to keep their children from influences such as yourself. You are mean, plain and simple. All talk, no solutions! (You can take that sentence fragment and stuff it!)
May 14, 2008

10:41 a.m.

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mrNiceGuy writes:

Brop - Education is broken, folks, both public and private.

Bzzzzzzzzz......
Are you referring to education or folks?
May 14, 2008

10:44 a.m.

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mrNiceGuy writes:

The caption isn't even offensive, heck, the students could have been goofing off between classes.

Bzzzzzzzz....

There's a run on sentence.
May 14, 2008

10:45 a.m.

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mrNiceGuy writes:

When you kiddies grow up and live in the real world for a while, you learn that some things just aren't really all that important...

Like the opinions of someone like Brop.
May 14, 2008

12:07 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

bropous,

I think the students felt the need to defend their school and possible misinterpretation of the picture and caption. But some of us clearly explained to them that it was not about the picture at all. And that goofing off is a normal thing.

This school may have helped a lot of childen in a positive way and that is awesome. But I am concerned that none of these students that responded seemed to feel that there are problems that need to be addressed. There should be a code of ethics here for these educators and it does matter what they do in their personal lives and in how they manage the funding of their school. That does have an influence on them whether they believe it or not. They need to be taught personal responsibility and not be influenced by some of the thoughts and opinions that Earl Armstrong has expressed.
May 14, 2008

1:02 p.m.

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holekeeper writes:

Heidi,
You are the voice of reason!
May 14, 2008

1:16 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

ahh...thanks holekeeper!
May 14, 2008

1:51 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Heidi I think that you are right in a sense that the pictures and captions really don't have as much to do with the story as the students are making them out to be. However, every photo and caption has somewhat implied a negative message which kind of echos just as loud and negative as the story itself. Now I am not trying to start anymore heated discussions because we had enough of that yesterday. It just amazes me that the pboto of the bus was big enough to include the CCI tag in red paint on the side of the bus, the other photo showed the principal pointing and fussing at students that it was said were "goofing off in a classroom", and in the article today it showed students looking over a rail between passing periods that were, as the editor called it, "hanging out". All of these photo, just help nail the story home that the school is just not good for much of anything. I think the students have a right to be upset because it devalues the little sense of pride that they may have once had in their school. I can only imagine what some of these students are feeling now that it has been put out there that there really does not seem to be anything positive about their school.
May 14, 2008

2:35 p.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

Yesterday I wrote this:

“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? “

Today I read this in the Denver Post:

“ Earl Armstrong, 41, hired in September as a teacher, is a community activist with various and numerous convictions on his record. Last year, he was found guilty at trial of third-degree assault and sentenced to probation and community service after beating up his girlfriend.”

Well, there’s my answer… it’s all crystal clear now. NO WONDER he wrote, “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”. UNBELIEVABLE rationalization!

I would be absolutely LIVID about hiring practices at CCI if my child were attending this school. Those who are entrusted with our children should be held to a higher standard – PERIOD.
May 14, 2008

3:01 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

If he is a spokesman for CCI, it's no wonder the students think it's okay for anyone working at or leading the school to have a criminal record. They must think it's a common, accepted practice. And as long as someone has "credentials" they can get away with anything. Just put up a good front when you're not commiting crimes.
May 14, 2008

8:39 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Forum,
it should be very obvious that I have no fear in communicating with any of you. Unlike each of you, I came here with no masks and hiding behind no sheets. I gave my name because I am not at all ashamed or mentally diminished by anything I have done or by who I am. Therefore your petty potshots about my criminal past have no effect like you wish for them too.

Secondly, I am an African American/Chicano male from the inner-city streets. For many of you this makes no difference because you have no idea of the world we live in, so it becomes simple to dismiss our allegations of racism. Most people can only speak upon matters in which they have a personal connection too. So if you are a White American from an area that is not riddled by drugs, crime, violence, police harassment and brutality, gangs, poverty, etc., then it becomes fashionable to deny the truth of the realities in which these drudges create. As a result, I expect for you to deny the inherit racism that exists in this discussion and moreso in this entire story.

Yes, I have a criminal background that is quite extensive. This is due to the fact that I was raised in an environment that taught me that criminality was the normal behavior for an African American male to pursue, because White America was not inviting openly to our dreams and ambitions unless we could run a ball or sing a chorus. You see this mentality displayed throughout the hip-hop culture, and it is a mentality that has been passed on from generation-to-generation to our youth of today.

Fortunately, by the age of 24, I began to see that this mentality was morally wrong and self-destructive. This epiphany came after I had been privileged to be indoctrinated into the studies of African American and Chicano History at the University of Colorado-Boulder, where I only initially went to play football. All my life I had blamed the White man for his horrific history in relation to my people, and I justified my criminality with this anger. However, through my studies I began to see that the same slavery and lynching that I was mad about from an historical perspective was hypocritical, because in our modern times it was us doing the job of the Ku Klux Klan by killing ourselves with gangs and drugs.
May 14, 2008

8:41 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Thus, I began a path of ending the cycle of criminality that was inherent from generation-to-generation within my family and community, and became an activist in my community against many of these plagues to prevent future generations from falling into this mindless trap. Upon taking this commitment I graduated from CU with a degree in Communications and Ethnic Studies, and raised five children alone who have all graduated from high school, attending colleges, and who are not in no form associated with the criminality in which I inherited. None of you can take this from me!

Now you can go on and fault me for my past, and the highly unwise decision I made to hit my girlfriend in retaliation after she had placed her hands on me a year ago. However, you cannot in no way diminish the progress and accomplishments I have made for myself, my family, and my community.

Unfortunately, that is the aim and intent of this article and most of your posts; which is to deny the rights of unwanted and unequal American citizens to their Constitutional privileges because of popular conservative White perspectives and opinions. This story is not about criminality, misappropriation of funds, or any real wrongdoings by CCI. It is a racist attack on a charter school whose focus is centered on African American children whom are going on in life equipped academically and socially to succeed. This year CCI has 32 of 32 seniors graduating and last year they were able to boost a 95% graduation rate. Two years ago, when I was researching schools to send my child to CCI had all of their CSAP scores in the HIGH category before it accepted the Katrina students and began to grow-and-grow from its popularity within the African American community. Moreover, this is a political story aimed at securing a state of the art facility for DPS to move its headquarters into. It is a known fact that DPS is moving out of its building on Grant Street and is in the real estate market searching for a new home. Additionally, this story is an attempt to place a black-eye on an institution that is taking the initiative to educate children in whom DPS has historically failed. What would it really say if a bunch of reformed criminals were able to educate OUR children when DPS has historically been unable and inept to do so?
May 14, 2008

8:44 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

As for criminality this story has nothing to do with, because as I went through the Colorado Department of Education’s hearing process to prove that I was rehabilitated I was number 59 on the docket. That places 58 individuals with criminal pasts that were before me in February. I am more than sure that by the end of the year that number was tripled and also many of these individuals won back their rights to teach just like I did. So where are these teachers today and why is this story not focused on all districts and schools with teachers that have criminal pasts? I’ll take the privilege and answer, RACISM! I challenge your beloved media to go to all the districts and get them to relinquish this information and I will bet you they will not have that luxury because of the classified nature of this information.

Finally, this is a story about the Denver Police Department attempting to play bully on a community leader who stood by her convictions. In January, Detective Velmi Agee came to Dr. Jones and demanded for her to get rid of several staff members and allow DPS to run the schools discipline policy. Like a true warrior to her cause Dr. Jones refused and we all knew there would be more to come as Detective Agee stormed out of CCI rebuffed, angry, and vindictive.

So continue your aimless and uneducated rants of your own opinions and beliefs, and say what you will. The teachers, students, and administrators at CCI are committed to OUR children’s educations and futures and nothing any of yall can do to derail this. At CCI, we are like a community of lionesses ready to defend their cubs, and from the articulation of OUR highly touted senior class OUR cubs are just as ready to defend us. This is because at CCI we are not just a school we are a family. In any true family there is trust, faith, loyalty, and forgiveness regardless if Uncle Edward is a crackhead, Cousin Charles has a prison and criminal past, or any other of the drudges our community contends with comes to effect and affect the family. I am so honored and proud to be a member of this family and for OUR matriarch’s love, devotion, and guidance. See yall next issue because we are well aware this assault on OUR school, race, and community is just beginning. God Bless.
May 15, 2008

9:07 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

Earl Armstrong can sway young impressionable minds because he speaks so eloquently.

He blames whitey for his criminal record:

“Yes, I have a criminal background that is quite extensive. This is due to the fact that I was raised in an environment that taught me that criminality was the normal behavior for an African American male to pursue, because White America was not inviting openly to our dreams and ambitions unless we could run a ball or sing a chorus.”

Then he claims to rise above that:

“All my life I had blamed the White man for his horrific history in relation to my people, and I justified my criminality with this anger. However, through my studies I began to see that the same slavery and lynching that I was mad about from an historical perspective was hypocritical, because in our modern times it was us doing the job of the Ku Klux Klan by killing ourselves with gangs and drugs.”
“Thus, I began a path of ending the cycle of criminality that was inherent from generation-to-generation within my family and community, and became an activist in my community against many of these plagues to prevent future generations from falling into this mindless trap”

He then contradicts himself:

“…why is this story not focused on all districts and schools with teachers that have criminal pasts? I’ll take the privilege and answer, RACISM!”

He boasts about CCI:

“This year CCI has 32 of 32 seniors graduating and last year they were able to boost a 95% graduation rate. Two years ago, when I was researching schools to send my child to CCI had all of their CSAP scores in the HIGH category before it accepted the Katrina students…
Additionally, this story is an attempt to place a black-eye on an institution that is taking the initiative to educate children in whom DPS has historically failed. What would it really say if a bunch of reformed criminals were able to educate OUR children when DPS has historically been unable and inept to do so?”

If I was one of those “Katrina” students, I would be offended. It may be a fact that they brought the average CSAP scores down, but why did Mr. Armstrong feel a need to tell us that? A student attending a school with only 32 seniors should have received a better education than what may have been received at any other DPS school. I attended a very small private school which received no state funding and we received a better education than the public schools and obtained higher ACT scores. With a more favorable student to teacher ratio, there is no reason why this cannot happen.

Mr. Armstrong goes on to say:

“This story is not about criminality, misappropriation of funds, or any real wrongdoings by CCI. “

Yes, it is, Mr. Armstrong. CCI is a public school and deserves the scrutiny of the public and proper authorities.
May 15, 2008

9:07 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

Taken from the Colorado Dept of Education website:

“A charter school is a public school operated by a group of parents, teachers and/or community members as a semi-autonomous school of choice authorized by a school district or the Colorado Charter School Institute (CSI). The charter school operates under a charter (a contract) between the charter school and its authorizer, either a local school district or the Colorado Charter School Institute.
A charter school is accountable to the families in the school, the local school district or Charter School Institute, and the state.”
May 15, 2008

9:40 a.m.

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daddyblt writes:

I totally agree that the job of the reporters is to report on the issues that surround situations whether it be in the school system, churches, businesses, neighborhoods, or anywhere else that news is taking place. However, I do not think that it is fair for the stigma to be placed on the employees at CCI that all the employees that work at the school are reformed criminals or ex-convicts. Now don't get me wrong, I am not saying that this is what you, Heidi and Bropous, are saying. However, we do know that in the society we live in people do tend to make generalizations when negative news hits the press. If one politician makes a poor choice, suddenly all politicians are liars, crooks, etc, etc, etc. If one player on the team admits to using performance enhancers, suddenly we get suspicious of all athletes for doing the same thing. We just have to be careful not to assume that majority of the teachers and staff have criminal backgrounds...even if this is how it was made out to be.
May 15, 2008

9:47 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

bropous,

"So, Heidi, does that mean that if the school and the "families" in the school like crackheads and convicted violent criminals being around the kids, that overrules the standards set by the state for employees of educational facilities?"

Of course not!!!

This school should be accountable to the families, as well as to the local school district and the state. The families of these students should be alarmed at these findings, rather than defend them. They obviously have been swayed by the "teachings" of Mr. Armstrong, as well as anyone not unlike him.
May 15, 2008

9:56 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

daddyblt, thanks for listening.

Please understand that I am not making any assumptions about all of the teachers and staff. It is likely that there are many good-quality, dedicated teachers at CCI. This is an unfortunate situation to them as well as to all of the students. And I think it is wonderful news that all graduating students will go on to further their education!
May 15, 2008

10:08 a.m.

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cutiepuppie21 writes:

bropous,
If you think that all this school is is a hangout for drug addicts and criminals then all your thinking is that people can't change. Sure you can't chnage people but they ca change themselves andd they have moved on from that so why can't you? I am currently a student here at CCI and I love it! It is a place where I can actually feel where I can have friends my color and if you can't accept the fact that people can change then I feel sorry for you because the world is changing everyday and will continue to change for the rest of our life's!
May 15, 2008

10:20 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

cutiepuppie,

I also believe that people can change and I am happy for you that you are in a school that you love. But do you realize that what you just said "It is a place where I can actually feel where I can have friends my color" will be construed as a racist view in defending your segregated school?
May 15, 2008

10:34 a.m.

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daddyblt writes:

See that is what I mean by making generalizations. A few of the kids from CCI have chosen to leave feedback on this discussion thread and they only represent a small portion of the population of students and the opinions within the school. But, once again, we see it stated that "These kids aren't being educated, they are being indoctrinated by crack heads, violent girl-beating criminals, and embezzlers." That is a comment that is not fair to the other students and teaching staff. We do not know that ALL the students feel this way about those who are pinpointed in the articles. And we do not know how large the staff is and what population of those who work there actually have criminal backgrounds. That is just not fair! I don't care how you cut it, it is not fair to make that assumption. Some of these kids come from stronger homes that do teach them morality. Because of that, they are being taught by who the best teachers are for any chid...their own parents!
May 15, 2008

10:39 a.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

Daddyblt – I like your style! Thank you for being logical.

I have no doubt that Earl Armstrong believes he’s fighting the good fight when he says things like, “What would it really say if a bunch of reformed criminals were able to educate OUR children when DPS has historically been unable and inept to do so?” . In my mind, he’s done more to harm the school’s reputation than the story printed by the press. He doesn’t even attempt to veil his unabashed racism when he spews venom about “your persuasion”, “lynching”, and “hiding behind no sheets”. Is this what he’s teaching “his” kids? I think this frightens me more than all of his convictions put together.
May 15, 2008

10:41 a.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Thank you much sir!
May 15, 2008

10:45 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

daddyblt,

You are right. bropous has some valid points but is harming his case by making comments like that.

I would say that if there are students and parents that don't approve of what is going on at the school, then they have chosen to stay out of this discussion. I can understand that decision. These internal issues will hopefully be dealt with in fairness to all. That means enforcing the contract that this school has entered into.
May 15, 2008

11 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

3dogsand1devilcat,

You have summed up my feelings and remarks!
May 15, 2008

11:10 a.m.

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daddyblt writes:

To say that a diploma from CCI is not worth the paper that it is written on, that is pretty harsh! I don't think that anyone who says something like this is aware of how insulting comments like this are to those who have achieved success that have come out of this school. I was taught that if you can't say anything nice, maybe don't say anything at all! DON'T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS ABOUT WHAT YOU OBVIOUSLY DON'T KNOW! Heidi, I do appreciate your open comments and the manner in which you choose to address what it is that you have to say. I can respect that, but just making insults and put downs, I just can't honor that. Especially when all of those who have graduated in past years from the school are from a minority background. Basically what is being said to them is that their success is nothing! What encouragement for our future!!!
May 15, 2008

11:33 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

I would like to add that I have been to many schools but Challenges,Choices,and Images is by far the only school I have been on honor roll on. Everyone says we are being doctorined by crackheads, child molesters,and just all around criminals. But once we found out that there were criminals we either fired or put them on leave for the sake of us, the children. and Mr. Bropous I disagree with everything you say not to be racist, but why when we minorities encounter a problem it's everywhere!?! If I am illiterate then why am I in the grade i'm in? If you have ever heard of Ceasar the emporer Mr. Bropous sounds like a Brutus. He stabbed Ceasar in the back and I honestly think that that is what the press is doing. The press comes to our school and takes pictures we think is for the good, come to find out they're for this!! Don't stereotype us learn to treat us as equals and if you want to know more, come visit us!
May 15, 2008

11:36 a.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

Mr.Bropous maybe you should come to our school and observe it yourself.Since you know so much about it.Because our school is very educated.All of our teachers have master's, and phd's.You should start treating us like proper people.Our school is about giving second chances maybe you should do so.Because I know your not perfect,MR.Bropous
May 15, 2008

11:46 a.m.

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THUGGNIFICENT writes:

As for all of you that doubt CCI , have you even looked at what us as a school has done for ourselfs in the past nine years. Out of all the school that do make headlines on the news this is just our first.I can tell you this all these pictures that are put out to destroy our school, that is not our ways . we do not chracterise vandilism and and total disrespect.Other schools that have acused criminals have never been put on on blast like this so I tell you is there a such thing as a second chance?
May 15, 2008

11:48 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

THUGGNIFICENT I agree 100%
May 15, 2008

11:50 a.m.

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THUGGNIFICENT writes:

Heidi wat is your opinion on this topic
May 15, 2008

11:50 a.m.

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childofgod writes:

Is is right that crack addicts,sex offends, etc. is a bad way to represent our school, but picture this do you even know william brown or earl arm strong like i do? these teachers at our school have good hearts, strong minds, and beautiflu souls that you haven't had the chance to recognize yet. what ever they have going on at home or in their past is not brought to our school. so how is that so bad? please explain to me how something i did not know about can hurt me? it is very unfair that we get our education taken away from us because you think we are a bad school, but some kids, if cci were to close don't have any other choice and are not allowed in any other school. would it be the right thing to take someone's education away? before most kids came here they had all F's and now that they have came to cci they have let their true intelligence show by taking the time and effort to listen to someone who understands them.you may say our standards are low or that we dont have a high curriculum but you do not know us. NONE OF US.I have never been pushed so hard to do good in my life. I have never had this many people care about me in my intire life so if you think that our seniors and other students do not get the right education, you are wrong and you don't want anything for us kids, and if you don't like how we are being taught here then you come and teach us show us how much you care. but right you don't care you are against cci but what if your child went here would you still want it to be closed if your child is learning and getting a proper education.i understand that you may say we are racist because we love to be around people who are of color, but the thing is we like to be around people like us because some of the situations we have been in most caucasin,asian,chinese etc. have not experienced anything close to what we've been through. not saying that other ethnicities don't go through trials and tribulations but not as hard as a child of color or a minority child. It is hard to get an education when you have people saying all kinds of stereotypes about our school. this is our home and we love cci so please Mr. Brian Maass and dps do not take Dr. jones dream and our dream away.
May 15, 2008

12:02 p.m.

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childofgod writes:

Daddyblt,
you are right they don't understand how i feel, how we feel, how Dr. Jones feels, and how our teacher's feel.we are about second chances and by taking our school away you are taking teacher's jobs away, students education away, and dr. jones dream away and if you are willing to take that away from us well forget you.trust and believe your negative comments are not going to make us give up we will fight and we will keep our heads held high for what is right no matter who or what gets in our way we will fight and we will stay.we love our school and Dr. jones loves us we would hate to see our school close
May 15, 2008

12:51 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Can any of you intellectuals tell me how your personal arguments and opinions supercede the Fifth Amendment of the Bill of Rights?

Remeber as you argue, this amendment was placed in the Constitution by your forefathers who were well aware of the fact that most of the American citizens in, entering, and coming to America at that time were criminals. Maybe even a few of your ancestors.
May 15, 2008

12:53 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

Mr. Bropous you stated that Harriett Tubman, Fredrick Douglas, and George Washington Carver got their education, I myself believe that us as a race should strive for a better education. HOW CAN WE DO THAT IF YOU KEEP PUTTING US DOWN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You say that we don't need criminals working in our school, but you should not jeopardize us kids for our teachers actions. With all due respect I really think you judged us to quick. I bet you can't say why the school is the way it is. Can you? Don't make falty accusations if you don't really know the story behind it. We will fight for what is right and you better believe we will win. WE HAVE DEDICATION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And that is something you will not take away from us.
May 15, 2008

12:55 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Bropous, are you jealous because I have a job and you obviously don't? You truly remind of the Rev. Ted Haggart who went around condeming homosexuals as immoral but was carrying on a homosexual relationship with a male prostitute.

Finally before i get back to work, I challenge you to give your name and birthdate to your comrade Heidi and let her run a criminal background check on you. With the racism, anger, and hate you display i am willing to bet you a few drunken nights you are hiding behind your sheet behind.
May 15, 2008

12:56 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Bropous: I don't feel that anyone is expecting you to retract those statements. Again, I do feel that the students who are on this site posting comments only represent a small portion of studetns who attend CCI. These students may be being influenced to say the things that they are saying.

One of the things that i do understand about CCI is that they have taken in several students who were the product of other public schools (Aurora/Denver/other districts) and the education those schools gave them before they attended CCI. It takes quite some time to correct what terrible teachers in any district and any school fail to give kids. If a student receives one poor year of schooling, they never quite catch back up. I have seen it time and time again.

A student can have one bad teacher. If that teacher fails to give that student those tools they need in order to be successful, then that teacher and school have failed the student. You are absolutely right in the fact that we do not need certain people around our children, teaching them, or interacting with them. There are some serious issues that need to be looked at accross the board in education and it is up to ALL OF US, regardless of race, economic status, and other differences to achieve this goal.

The focus should not be on what the kids are not capable of doing at the moment. Nor should the focus be on what those certain individuals have done wrong. The focus should now be on giving these and all students the best that we have to give them and ultimately what they are deserving of. However, do not discredit the hard work that some of the teachers have given, or the outstanding achievements of other students at this school over the years.

All that to say, CCI students and others who post on this site, let's play fair! There is a much better way to be a part of the sollution. CCI students, keep going to class! As Borpous said yesterday, learn it, live it and love it! Get your test scores up and show what your school is made of! I know you can do it! Borpous, as adults who obviously care about the well being of ALL children, let's be a bit more encouraging and not put the children down. Give them the truth, tell them what they need to hear and encourage them to keep reaching for the stars!
May 15, 2008

12:57 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

But that just shows how ignorant you are because you are not looking at the main point I look at the big picture and you stick to the little things
May 15, 2008

12:57 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

But that just shows how ignorant you are because you are not looking at the main point I look at the big picture and you stick to the little things
May 15, 2008

1:03 p.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

debater101 i agree 100%.HE should not jeprodize our education.
May 15, 2008

1:05 p.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

daddyblt you are right also
May 15, 2008

1:06 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

Thank you for your help ccistudent6.
May 15, 2008

1:06 p.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

Why isn't anybody commenting
May 15, 2008

1:09 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

The hard work was not for nothing, we will stay open and strive for our education.
May 15, 2008

1:14 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

Bropous I will say this you are not really against our school, you are against our teachers. I thank you for wanting us to succeed.
May 15, 2008

1:15 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Bropous: Very well said sir! That is the kind of encouragement I like to see! That is great advice for the students to hear!!! I think that this is what all of us would like to see come out of this situation, that the students will challenge themselves to succeed for themselves, integrate with the rest of the world, and not wall themselves off. This is the real world we all live in!
May 15, 2008

1:16 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

No need to get personal. Just state the facts.
May 15, 2008

1:20 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

CCI Students,

First of all, I would like to say that I am siding with daddyblt at 12:56. And I don't think any of you should worry that any of the specific comments or views that have been expressed on this forum is a threat to a closing of your school. I don't want that and am hoping that bropous really is not fighting for that either.

THUGGNIFICENT asked what my opinion was on this topic. I am assuming he/she is wanting to know how I feel about second chances. I feel that all of you students deserve a second chance and commend all of you for trying to excel in school. But I also believe that the hiring practices and management of funds should be upheld to the highest standards of the Colorado Dept of Education. Every school should. It is not my belief that this school should be closed because of possible misappropriation of funds or poor hiring practices. Things obviously need to be changed to make your school the best it can be. Good luck to all of you in your future careers!
May 15, 2008

1:23 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

hasslicher_jude: This is exactly the kind of mess that people like myself are talking about. The fact that you can use the words "you people" shows that you do not understand what it is like to be a minority. There is nothing wrong with your statement, you are entitled to feel however you feel. But please save yourself from being considered a racist or from being called prejudice by using those kind of terms. What does "you people" mean anyway? What are you saying? Blacks? Hispanics? Do you even know the makeup of the school. You would be surprised to know that it is not all black like you probably think!

Anytime something has african or black connected to it, it suddenly becomes BS. Our children have been taught anglo history from the time they have started school so your comment is BS. Sorry to get personal, because until now I have tried to remain a voice of peace on here. But that is the kind of ignorance that people in society echo which is why racism still exists in the heart of some today!
May 15, 2008

1:27 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Heidi: Thank you for the encouragement to the students!
May 15, 2008

1:27 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

Bropous, thanks again for wanting us to see the good things in life. I understand what point you are getting to, but its not fair to take the students education away from us because of the teachers with criminal backgrounds.Make a request to have the teachers fired, but when you make a request to have our school closed then you are giving the kids the idea that you are are a racist. What are your sources? Just a criminal background of a few staff members.You haven't been here to see how we learn, and you haven't known us to know how much we've grown. We at cci are a family and taking this away from us is like taking away a baby bird from his mother, she would be sad and dissapointed just like us at cci.
May 15, 2008

1:38 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

If it happened 50 years ago then guess what genius, it is a part of history!!! The lynching of blacks and other ethnicities is a part of history! As grim as it is, it happened! RECOGNIZE IT!!! The truth really does hurt doesn't it! You are a pure example of people thinking that things can just be swept under the rug and forgotten. Are the Jewish told to forget the holocaust? No! But when it is black or African American we have to forget and act like it did not happen right? PLEASE!

Do you realize how "US PEOPLE" have had to fight just to get our holidays recognized? And guess what, we will keep fighting to ensure that even more holidays and more influential figures keep getting recognized and then we will rub it in your face!

Nobody force feeds white children anything! The reality is that they grow up not realizing the ills of their ancestors which causes them to think that everything in America has been great! The reality, and yes I love America, is that everything has not been great...especially when you are black, brown, asian, etc., etc., etc. And if that means that it needs to be force fed to them, then good! I say feed them all day long so that they understand TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!
May 15, 2008

1:40 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

And, the reason that it will only get worse is because of the kind of parents that they will have raising them that will keep prepetuating this kind of hatred and racist junk like you speak on here!!
May 15, 2008

1:46 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

debater101,

How is it that since bropous has suggested that the school be closed (he has since retracted that) you automatically assume he is being racist? He has not been racist againt you. He has been pointing out the racist ideals of Earl.
As soon as everyone recognizes that not every person or action is meant to be racist, then the sooner we can all get along.
And I feel, just at hasslicher_jude does, that as the segregation becomes more prominant, the more it will drive our country apart. Everyone should take personal responsibility for their own actions and not pass blame to others, especially to people who have been in their graves for a long time.
May 15, 2008

1:54 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

The extent of slavery kids learn about is the colonies where slavery existed, that they were not always happy and then good old Harriet Tubman came along to free them and the blacks lived happily ever after. YADA YADA YADA Kids are given such a glamorized version of slavery which is obvious from your statements! Kwanza? How much do you know about it? Nothing cause you don't care to know. You talk about what the kids are force fed right? Well sir, just exactly what are they being force fed and how much of it do they get? Obviously you did not get enough! As far as your example of black men only wanting to date black women and white people being accused of being racist when they only want to date whites...never heard that before! Don't know where you grew up, but it is evident that it was around people who probably think just like you! I PRAY THAT YOU NEVER CONSIDER TEACHING AS A PROFESSION OR ANY OTHER KIND OF WORK WITH CHILDREN!
May 15, 2008

2:02 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Heidi, I think it is not a matter of passing the blame down. But why is it so hard for society to just acknowledge that the ills that have been committed against certain ethnic groups really happened? It's like we always have to pretend like those things did not happen. I don't even think it's a matter of feeling like we are owed anything. It is those people who are in their graves that caused those things to happen and whether we like it or not we have felt the effects of those ills even to this present day! 50 years seems like a long time ago, but when you think about it it was not that long ago the bus boycotts took place, that sit it movements too place, that court cases were being decided for lynchings. Not to mention that several of those cases have been reopened in recent years to allow the justice that should have reigned back then to reign now. Not arguing with you. I agree that we need to move forward in an effort to have equality and harmony among all people. However, we will never forget the past. It is what helps us to preserve our present and aim for the future!
May 15, 2008

2:02 p.m.

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childofgod writes:

Bropous,
I read the advice that you gave to my classmate debator101. See i thought you were racist but then i seen the comments you wrote to us.
See that's what we are talking about people don't wnat to see us succeed and people don't want us to know our past.THE TRUTH (refering to hasslicher_jude) we are upset that these criminals and such are teaching us and we need to seperate our selves from this kind of activity.However we are not segregated.Dr.Jones has never said that this school was made for only minority kids she has opened up her school to white kids,asain kids,chinese kids, and even hawaiin kids. The way that some of us write is not truly who we are. I will never let anyone take my education away from me because i am in control of my life and of my education. I have met so many wonderful teachers and they have opened many doors for me. Without cci i would be a wreck. Bropous, yu say that we can be who we are without cci, but for some of us that isn't true because without cci someone of us might end up dropping out of school. These teachers care about us so much it's very hard to explain. It is a fact that many of our teachers care about us and we would truly hate to see our school taken away from us. You also stated that i am accountable of my education but how can i get an education when at most schools the teachers don't show sincerity and don't care about us as much as they do at cci.
May 15, 2008

2:04 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

daddyblt,

I am confused as to what you meant when you said: "Our children have been taught anglo history from the time they have started school". I did not go to school around here but the history classes that were offered at my elementary and high schools were American History. That included everything that happened in this country, good and bad. I don't feel that the horrible plight of the slaves should be forgotten, nor should it be used against any living person.
May 15, 2008

2:14 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

daddyblt,

Yes, it was white men that brought slavery to this country, but it was also white men that fought for their freedom and gave them the right to vote. In fact, black men were allowed to vote before women were! It was the women who fought to get the women's right to vote. I am not saying that should make up for what happened, but there have been many white people on your side as well. I can't say what it feels like to be in your shoes, but having more people with views such as yours will help to overcome the bitterness.
May 15, 2008

2:21 p.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

“these teachers at our school have good hearts, strong minds, and beautiflu souls that you haven't had the chance to recognize yet. what ever they have going on at home or in their past is not brought to our school. so how is that so bad? please explain to me how something i did not know about can hurt me?” – childofgod

Childofgod – rarely is anything in this life a black or white issue (no pun intended). Brown and Armstrong may have good hearts and beautiful souls. I honestly do believe that they want the best for you and your fellow students. Nevertheless, based on their lengthy records and recent arrests, they have proven that they are not REFORMED criminals. These men are your role models, your leaders… and yet they continue to participate in criminal activity – over and over and over again. I believe that every student deserves a second chance, maybe even a third, fourth, or fifth chance – HOWEVER, I cannot extend this right to any adult who is hired by the state and empowered with the responsibility of shaping your minds. What I hear you saying is that - for many of you - CCI was a turning point when you had no other place to go. I’m not trying to take that away from you or CCI. What I do believe, however, is that none of you should have ever been put in this situation. What I believe is that your principal should settle for nothing less than the cream of the crop - men and women who are not just educated, but upstanding, law abiding citizens – as your leaders/teachers.

Mr. Armstrong seems to insinuate that these beliefs make me a hateful racist. I sincerely hope you don’t feel the same way. I’d like to think that what my beliefs say about me is that I’m a parent who understands that your generation will soon hold the future of this country in your hands and I want nothing less than the best for all of you.
May 15, 2008

2:29 p.m.

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childofgod writes:

well hasslicher_jude,
I see your character very well.You may have been taunted by black people or mexicans, but the accusation you just made was sort of racist.You didn't look at the world differently you looked at minority people differently. Instead of looking at the world differently you should have been the bigger person because believe or not not all black people are like that. They may be racist in some ways but its not kind of you to say that all black people are the most racist. You can say what you feel but you don't know every black person in the world today, so its very harsh of you to sit there and make that generalization or stereotype that black people are the most racist. Why is it that a lot of white people discriminate black people because of the color of their skin? When i say i dislike someone i dislike them because of who they are or what i don't like about them and not because of their skin color or their ethnicity, because i associate with a lot of different ethnicities and i am AFRICAN-AMERICAN and i am not racist. So for you to sit there and say that a black person is more racist than any other person you got another thing coming straight towards you. Same if i were white or caucasin or even chinese all people should be treated equally where they are a discriminator or whether they just don't like black people.
May 15, 2008

2:30 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Who is using it against anyone? But slavery is only a piece of the pie. What about lynchings? Have you any idea the pain and hurt that familes still feel at the thought of the 4 little girls killed in the church bombing on 16th street? The photos of black men swinging from the trees with ropes around their necks? Heidi, please don't think I am being a jerk! But it is hard when you hear people like this hasslicher_jude who make comments that african/black heritage is BS. Why should we not be proud of who we are and celebrate it? Why should others not celebrate it? Is it not a part of history? Are we not a part of the fabric that makes this country what it is?

Hasslicher_jude: I have a question for you. You speak about how you grew up around blacks and hispanics and that they treated you unkind. Do you hold those experiences against all blacks today? Because it sounds like you do! Oh wait...I bet you are saying some of my best friends are black like most folks would say! See I have been treated bad by white folks too. But never do I attribute it to slavery and nor do I hold it against all white folks. I don't look at white people and get flashbacks of what white folks did to minorities years ago.
May 15, 2008

2:34 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Heidi, thank you again! If people learn to work together and gain understanding like some of us are doing on here, the world will be much better.

And yes, I do know that many whites fought right along side black for their rights! And some of them were lynched and brutally beaten just like blacks were. Those facts need to be made known as well!
May 15, 2008

2:39 p.m.

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childofgod writes:

What I believe is that your principal should settle for nothing less than the cream of the crop - men and women who are not just educated, but upstanding, law abiding citizens – as your leaders/teachers.-3dogsand1devilcat
3dogsand1devilcat-
Thanks for the advice it really shows how much the parents care about us. i understand your point that JE should hire people that are smart and are the cream of the crop. However she just didn't want anybody to teach us she said that every body deserves a second chance so she gave these people with criminal backgrounds another chance beacuse it was hard for them to get jobs with a record. These people have stories to tell and it is an example that shows us to not end up like him or her. I guides us into the right direction and to strive and to stay away from crack and to let our husbands beat us or to not let anyone put you down. DPS trying to close our school has made a lot of us stronger. It has taught us to not give up and to fight for our rights.
May 15, 2008

2:47 p.m.

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childofgod writes:

KEEP CCI ALIVE, YES WE WILL STRIVE, WE LOVE DR. JONES, AND OUR TEACHERS
May 15, 2008

4:08 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Amendment V Bill of Rights: 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.

Can anyone make an educated argument based on the Constitution and Bill of Rights and not popular conservative opinion?
May 15, 2008

4:09 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

bropous,

are you scared to give your friend your name and birthday so that we can verify your criminal background?

Also, it is not surprising to know that you are friends with Klansmen.
May 15, 2008

4:19 p.m.

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cutiepuppie21 writes:

bropous, if you think that what you heard on the news or saw in the newspaper is true then come up to the school to show your assumtion is true but until then you have no right to label our school!
May 15, 2008

4:21 p.m.

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cutiepuppie21 writes:

Heidi, that is not racism. I have been in school with white's, latinos, porta rican's, and many others but here is where I see myself and until you can come down here and make sure what you are saying is true then don't say anything else!
May 15, 2008

4:38 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

hasslicher_jude: Once again, it is obvious to see that conversation goes no where with prejudiced, racist people who obviously have the same chip on their shoulders that they accuse blacks of having on theirs. I do not know what black people you have dealt with, but it is obviously not the kind who have some sence. Believe it or not, as a minority person myself, there are some minorities that I even choose not to surround myself with. This is solely because we do see eye to eye on the same things and I don't care for their ways. I am glad that you tend to hang with people who are just like you and hope you all stay in your own little world.

As far as continuing conversation with you, it is truly not going anywhere! So I digress at this point and will allow you to exist in your own opinions. Blessings!
May 15, 2008

4:43 p.m.

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jeau_roxz writes:

Bropous And Hedi, for one thing............Ha! you guys are rediculous you people have never seen or heard of CCI before, or any one in it! It's suprising that you guys can even say things that you probably don't even know about us, or our school. Besides im sure your supprised that us AFRICAN AMERICANS are accually fighting back, because what you two probably don't know yet, is that CCI won't back down, no.........were not scared of you! were just about ready do declaire war! Oh, and if anyone else has any more rude comments go a head say it on the internet, but you probably won't say it out loud to us in person, now would you?........Nope didn't think so!

Posted By: Tahjeau Evans
A.K.A a child of CCI's family
May 15, 2008

4:58 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

I do not think that Heidi and Bropous are as bad as what people are making them out to be. They both have made some valid attempts to encourage the students to achieve excellence and not allow anyone or anything to keep them from success. I think the best thing that any of us can do, even for those who have been accused to the students to the parents to all of us in the community, is learn from these kind of mistakes and situations and work together to make our schools stronger.

Often times, we wait until the negatives happen. We are reactive instead of being proactive! This is the perfect time for people to take a deep, hard look into the world of education and acknowledge that their are changes that need to be made. Changes that extend from superintendents and other school officials who pad their pockets and sit back making decisons about schools they have not taken the time to constantly visit and monitor, to teachers who are past retirement time and only teaching to bide their time until they can retire, to inactive parents who use schools just for babysitting, to students who have become too laxed and could care less about their educations.

I think that all of us are guilty because we constantly sit back and allow issues to happen, speak our minds when they do, and do absolutely nothing even after the dust settles. We all have much work to do so let's do it!
May 15, 2008

4:59 p.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

Earl – I’m seriously trying to understand your argument. Are you saying, “I, Earl Armstrong, should not be “deprived of life, liberty, or property” (apparently the liberty - i.e. freedom – to work at a school with children(?)) because I did not receive “due process of law” regarding my two prior felony convictions and my most recent misdemeanor conviction”. Please explain how this argument is logical. You went through the court process… you pled guilty…
May 15, 2008

6:32 p.m.

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holekeeper writes:

Earl,
I lived in poverty my whole live with two drug addicted parents. I was often in schools where there were very few white students and was a victim of racisim. I am white. My sister died in 1999 leaving a mixed race baby behind. My father would beat my mother on a nightly basis, and even sold her body for drugs when we lived in Oregon. He has done several stints in prision.He always stated that my mom started the fights when he beat her, but she was the one that was black and blue. She did not leave him until 1995 when he pulled a knife on me when I tried to stop him from beating her one night.
I have the best reasons in the world to be a criminal and blame my upbringing. But, I have never been arrested, not once. I will give you my name and date of birth, and that of my father if you want to check my back ground story.
Let me know. because I do find you to be unfit to teach and work with children of any color!
May 15, 2008

8:34 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

Thank you daddyblt. You make a great role model for these students. It is true that many accomplishments go unrecognized and quite often only the negative points are made known. Sadly, many situations such as these evolve and then they must be fixed. I agree, we must be more proactive.

cutiepuppie, I was expressing my happiness for you that you love your school. I was also trying to give you a little advice. Sometimes others may perceive what you say and what you mean in a totally different light.
I understand how you would feel more comfortable going to school with others of your own race. I did as well. I don't believe that you need to have friends outside your race, but I wish we could all get along. When you start your career, you will probably not have a choice on who you work with, but you must be tolerating and accepting of others. There are a lot of difficult people out there to work with. You will be admired and go further in your career if you can look past others' shortcomings and embrace the differences. It's the differences which make a team successful. If we all thought alike, this world would be a boring place!
May 15, 2008

11:45 p.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Posted by EarlArmstrong on May 13, 2008 at 5:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
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.

3Dogdevilcat,

I know that yall have read what I have written, because you have maticulously managed to find the areas that you nisconstrue for your monologues.
May 16, 2008

1:08 a.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Heidi,

you should be given credit for probably the most inspirational message posted in this discussion. Whichever of our students that you stated this to, should and will be encouraged and hopeful. The child will probably come up and say, “Brother Earl what did you think about Heidi’s statement,” and of course their own. And I will tell them that is what the Guiding African Principles that we abide by, teach us to do. I truly am impressed by your empathy. However, does your wish for us to, “all get along,” not extend to the entire American citizenry? Or is it your desire, and the desire of your like minded friends in this forum, to only extend this goodwill to anyone that has never committed a crime, been in a gang, committed domestic violence, smoked some drugs, and please tell me who else you would exterminate like Hitler? Because, at CCI, we are a forgiving people trying our hardest to seek peace and educate our children. We have children from all backgrounds and races, and this diversity influences us to use tolerance on a daily basis. Believe me I am no racist, I do not possess the power required to discriminate against those I am prejudice against. I interact on a daily basis with many European American colleagues and students, who I love and care for like they hopefully love and care for me. I have professors, friends, and a White Grandmother Mary Murphy of The Veteran’s Justice League that I know can and will vouch for my character, or I would not be in the position I have worked hard to achieve. These people have supported me, and in a very strong sense I am indebted to succeed as a payback to each of them as well as for my own objectives. I also am of the firm understanding that all African American and Latinos are not good, so your attempts at reversed racism arguments can hold no weight with me. And for any of the teacher, students, professors, or elders in the European American community who have been offended by any of my arguments or statements, please forgive me and let’s discuss how I can better myself and respect you.
May 16, 2008

1:10 a.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Really, what you all are missing out on is that CCI has an excellent body of administrators, students, parents, and staff. I am dwarfed and equaled by a very talented group of people and I am in no way the spokesperson for CCI, because we have a consortium of spokespersons. The few (11 of 65 and only me as a teacher and Brother Bill as an administrator) of us that have placed a tarnished coating on the overall academic quality and devotion to pedagogy at CCI, does not reflect the highly qualified and gifted staff our matriarch has put together. So to the other 54 of you, “PLEASE ACCEPT MY APOLOGY, and I can only pray that each of you maintain your faith, friendship, and trust in me. Brother Bill is also a human being and a person deserving of the same. He has helped CCI ascend to a major charter school from very humble beginnings. He has a great relationship with all the students, parents, and staff, and is a great personality to be in the presence of eight to twelve hours a day. So let’s not allow ourselves to be divided and conquered and extend the wonderful post by Heidi throughout our cherished and beloved institution. Heidi, I’ll close with our African Guiding Principles given to you earlier by our admired and ambitious seniors, because I think they will allow us to, “all get along,” in a world of TOLERANCE.
May 16, 2008

1:12 a.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

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 intolerance 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 16, 2008

10:07 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

I really think that Earl Armstrong should not represent our school. I also know he has changed his life around. He has a boys group, which inspires alot of boys and also he h is a basketball coach. I understand the essence of his mistake and he should not do it ever again. I do beleive in second chances and Earl Armstrong should have a second chance.
May 16, 2008

10:09 a.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

hey MR.Bropous how are you doing today.I agree I think that we should only have people reprsenting our school that have sence.Earl, and Tahjeau shouldn't be representing our school.
May 16, 2008

10:15 a.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

hasslicher_jude how come your so racist toward or school
May 16, 2008

10:23 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

Mr. hasslicher_jude, for one I do not mean to get personal, but I am a man of color and that particular post disturbs me. I am hurt that people like yourself would say anything that involves race. Mr. Bropous has informed me that it is not a race thing it is a matter of our staff and principal. I do not refer to you as a racist, but do not play the race card. What race are you anyway (I suspect white)
May 16, 2008

10:26 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

Haters I do not agree with you about tahjeau she got personal and that calls for action.
May 16, 2008

10:31 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

debater101 and hater,

Maybe someone needs to remind your friend, Jeau_roxz, of the African Guiding principals. She has stated that the African Americans are fighting back and are about to declare war on us. I can see how someone can interprete that as a race war.
May 16, 2008

10:33 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

I know, but also, she got to personal and caused an outbreak.
May 16, 2008

10:35 a.m.

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cains_here_to_talk writes:

what i would just like to say to every one saying negative things about school, is that you guys don't know a thing about our school.You don't know how hard our principal has worked to get our school.once you read this i know you it wony change your mind
May 16, 2008

10:37 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

Oops, please pardon my misspelling of interpret!

And debater, I admire you for your propriety and justice!
May 16, 2008

10:39 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

Thank you Heidi I appreciate it very much. I feel I have good vocabulary(for 13)
May 16, 2008

10:41 a.m.

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Devotedccistudent writes:

mrs.heidi I think you miss interpeted our friend jeau_roxz. She got a little bit to personal. I think everone got a little to personal.
May 16, 2008

10:45 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

For anyone who wants to talk privately my email is aaron_lasseigne@hotmail.com.
May 16, 2008

10:46 a.m.

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calcifer writes:

I agree with your statement Devotedccistudent
May 16, 2008

10:48 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

Ok hasslicher.
May 16, 2008

10:49 a.m.

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debater101 writes:

Ok hasslicher.
May 16, 2008

10:51 a.m.

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childofgod writes:

BROPOUS
THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT. I understand the fact that a criminal should not be working for our school. I never looked at it that way. I think that the people with charges that were dismissed by the court of law years ago should be admitted to have a second chance. It was proven that some of our teachers were still perpetual with their conviction, and that shows how much of a role model they really are. They are not setting a good example for us kids. Even if the statistics were invalid it is not good for someone to even make that assumption that you are involved in crack addiction, girl-beating, etc. Tahjeau was very wrong and Earl Armstrong was as well wrong to get personal but they are not representing our school they are representing themselves we represent cci proudly. Debator101 and I represent cci and we love cci. Those people that threatened or discriminated against you were wrong and they had no right to. It shows how they represent our school and it makes us look bad when that isn’t the case. You see that we have smart students and we have students with no sense.
TO ALL THE CCI STUDENTS WHO ARE GETTING ANGRY BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE WANTING OUR SCHOOL TO CLOSE. DON’T EVEN SWEAT BECAUSE IN THE END CCI OPEN OR NOT WE ARE STILL A FAMILY AND WE WILL HAVE PRIDE AND DIGNITY.
HASSLICHER_JUDE- It was very wrong of you to talk about us. You may say that we are racist or that we have a” CHIP ON OUR SHULDER” But since you have been a child, Have you actually associated with minorities to see if they were different? And hello open your eyes its 2008 things have changed since slavery and since the civil war we are not taught our history to see how bad we were treated but we are taught our history to see where we are going in our future. We do not hold what happened in the past against whites but we have to realize it because to know our history is to know our family and our heritage. Did you know that knowing your past means knowing your heritage? –MY FAVORITE TEACHER BT
Just because you probably never had to fight does not give you the right to say that we have no right to fight for what is right or for what we love and are dedicated to.
May 16, 2008

10:58 a.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

if anyone needs to chat with of of here im at poopshow@live.com
May 16, 2008

11 a.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

“Or is it your desire, and the desire of your like minded friends in this forum, to only extend this goodwill to anyone that has never committed a crime, been in a gang, committed domestic violence, smoked some drugs, and please tell me who else you would exterminate like Hitler?” – Earl Armstrong

Earl - I think you care about these kids. But when you make statements like this, you portray yourself as an irrational, racially biased, activist fruit-loop.

What frustrates me about you, Earl, is your thick-headed desire to gather all the students under your wing and have them stand united with you in this debate – AS IF this were an attack on THEIR character, the entire school, or - worse yet - African Americans. I posted yesterday at 10:39am and 2:21pm – these posts pretty much sum up my beliefs so I won’t repeat myself. Don’t get me wrong, Earl… what’s happened – this debate ABOUT YOU (and any other criminals working at the school) – damn well affects them. Honestly, I believe this is an important, pivotal point in many of their lives. I hope to God that the administrators at your school will use some logic and explain to these children that this debate is about PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY and the reality that we all face long-reaching CONSEQUENCES if convicted of a crime, rather than any racist agenda you would prefer to shout from the rooftops.
May 16, 2008

11:09 a.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

3devilsand1devilcat I ageree,Earl is very thick headed.But I belive we should give another chance.Because thats what our school is about.I maen you cant tell that you haven't made any mistakes!Because even me as a 7th grade student,I have nade mistakes.So take it easy on Earl but dont because he does dserve it in some way.
May 16, 2008

11:13 a.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

And im also sorry for my icorrect grammer in my lat comment
May 16, 2008

11:15 a.m.

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childofgod writes:

3dogsand1devilcat-
I AGREE WITH YOUR ACCUSATIONS: but see these people are representing themselves and showing their true colors but no one is going to represent me but me. I represent african- americans proudly. not that i am a racist but im proud to have brown skin i love my heritage, and everybody is saying that the white people are trying to take things away from us but they can't take something away that we took away ourselves. we acted with such manner and some of our staff allowed themselves to beat their girlfriends,smoke crack, etc. but other people who are not black commit crimes similar to that so it doesn't make just blacks look bad it makes all the men, and people of america look bad and not just black or african-american people.
May 16, 2008

11:41 a.m.

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Heidi writes:

childofgod,

I realize that each one of you has your own mind and you are each doing what you feel is right. No one here wants your school to close. So please, everyone, don't believe that.
I still don't think you get our point when you made this comment:

"but other people who are not black commit crimes similar to that so it doesn't make just blacks look bad it makes all the men, and people of america look bad and not just black or african-american people."

I agree with you and I don't think I need to repeat what some of us have been saying that it is not about you being black.

Wow, a few of you are pretty young and I am impressed that you take such a mature stand. If your school doesn't have a student council, then I suggest you form one. I nominate debater101 for president! This way when your voice is heard, it will be the student majority. You should learn about the school laws and regulations and accountability as determined by the Colorado Dept of Education.

http://www.cde.state.co.us/index_law.htm

You can then come up with ideas on your own on what would be best for the school. Student Council membership will look great on college applications, as well as on your resume!
May 16, 2008

12:33 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

Thanks, bropous, and you have made some important points that they should all take a look at. Hopefully, your strong convictions have been a good example to them.
May 16, 2008

12:41 p.m.

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daddyblt writes:

Great advice for the students of CCI bropous! Great advice! I hope that they are listening and taking it all in stride!
May 16, 2008

1:34 p.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

To ccistudent6 at 11:09am:

First of all, Darlin’, let me tell you how proud I am of you and your fellow students who have posted here. The vast majority of you have shown yourselves to be wise, compassionate, and logical thinking young men and women. I agree 100% with Heidi’s assessments about you guys and with Bropous when he said, “Some of the students posting here have shown greater intellect and ethics than some of the people who have set themselves as role models at CCI.”

In reply to your post, I have made plenty of mistakes in my lifetime, but I am not a convicted felon. If I did have a conviction, by the way, I would not be allowed to work where I work. Personally, I do not believe that Mr. Armstrong is a bad person… human beings are complex creatures and we all have character flaws. But, I just can’t agree with you that Mr. Armstrong deserves a “second” chance if you mean that he should be allowed to continue working at the school. This doesn’t mean that I believe he has no value, or that he shouldn’t be “allowed to pursue the American dream”. And it most certainly doesn’t mean that I think he should be “lynched” or “exterminated” as he has suggested. Unfortunately, when Mr. Armstrong makes these kinds of inflammatory comments in order to deflect the "heat" away from himself and his criminal propensities, it makes me lose even more respect for him.
May 16, 2008

1:39 p.m.

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Devotedccistudent writes:

bropous i think ur apology is NOT SINCERE.
May 16, 2008

1:41 p.m.

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debater101 writes:

Bropous are you still there.
I would like to have an intelectual conversation.
May 16, 2008

1:52 p.m.

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brown4436 writes:

At challanges,choices,and Images no one really did not care about any of the teacher's backround's mr.bropus.During the time that CCI has been open the teachers have taught us a lot.DPS and APS has
failed to teach kids and that is why that we have alot of students at cci
May 16, 2008

2:08 p.m.

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Devotedccistudent writes:

I devotedccistudent agree with brown4436
May 16, 2008

2:40 p.m.

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calcifer writes:

yes a criminal should not be able to teach but it's called change.Pepole can change like bother Earl he has changes
from those times hes not a so called, "woman beater",
hes a teacher at CCi and hes a rolemodel to a lot of students i would appericate it if you didnt put him on the spotdont because he is one of the best teachers at CCI.
May 16, 2008

2:41 p.m.

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Devotedccistudent writes:

My intelligent teacher or the so called women beater is a very excellent mind crafter. I have learned at least 20 more ways of writing then I did at A DPS school.I really dont apperciate you putting my teacher on the spot dont get me wrong he has done alot of things i'm sure he wished he did'nt do,but so have you.I know if some one pulled up your history and it was messed up you would'nt like it.Look bropous you might be a great preson but your not showing us that side of you. I would love it if you did reveal that side to the staff,students,and Administrators of our school.
May 16, 2008

3:24 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

I had decided not to comment on the assault charge on a woman but feel compelled to now. I was married to an angry, abusive man for 2 years. I should have left him after he laid a hand on me the first time. He agreed to go to therapy, but only went twice. Apparently, he didn't feel that he had a problem and never admitted to me that he was wrong. I didn't tell my friends and family that it was going on and no one had a clue because he put up such a good front. So, even though one may appear to be "rehabilitated" that doesn't mean it is so. I was told by the therapist that someone like him will more than likely never change, especially if he couldn't admit he was wrong and was only angered if someone tried to talk to him about it.

The only comment that I saw Mr. Armstrong make about his particular incident was "Now you can go on and fault me for my past, and the highly unwise decision I made to hit my girlfriend in retaliation after she had placed her hands on me a year ago."
Does this sound like someone who feels remorse or does it sound like someone who is trying to make excuses for his "unwise decision" and pass blame? It wasn't just an unwise decision, it was an act of uncontrollable violence.
May 16, 2008

3:57 p.m.

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jeau_roxz writes:

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA realy LOL Bropous,

You really think your hurting me, really BOO HOO You Seem like your The Bigger Person Don't You.......

You Bring Up Things You've Probably Never Even Known About Before, Huh? You Know Im Telling The Truth.

Sure Go Ahead And Believe What Debater And ChildOfGod Say........

Truth Is Me And Mr.Earl Are The True Fighters In This Situation!

We Are NOT Going To Fall To Your Stupidity!

You Can Only Say Thigs About Mr.Earl, But Yet I Hear You Say Nothing About Me!

Ya Thats Right You Don't Know ANYTHING About Me.............

So Bropous Keep Trying To Think That You Can Say Whatever You Want.......

But DON'T EVER SAY ANYTHING YOU HAVE NO PROOF ABOUT!!!!! Plus Iv'e Never Seen A CRACKHOUSE Or Been In One In My Life!

So Thank Youself For Making It Look Like You Stupid +Clap+ gOOD jOB!

+Snort+ That One!
May 16, 2008

4:43 p.m.

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LuckyMe writes:

jeau_roxz,
I've been following these posts on this thread, and I must say for the record.... As a propery taxpaying citizen of the City and County of Denver, people like myself actually can say what we want. We have every right to do so because it's our money. When you become of age and mature (hopefully) you will be able to as well. Not saying your opinions don't matter, they do to a certain extent. I personally don't agree with Mr. Earl or his followers (you). My children and the children of the community deserve to have people in authority held to the highest standard possible. I believe in second chances, but not when it comes to the children. We don't let certain people (criminals) around our kids for a reason. Once again, once you become older and more mature, you will see for yourself. If we as a community lower that bar, we all know (yourself included) what that does to young minds, and it's nothing good. Like someone somewhere once said......"Garbage in, garbage out.
May 16, 2008

10:50 p.m.

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holekeeper writes:

I guess earl didnt want to challange me......too abd I like proving people wrong.
May 17, 2008

9:45 a.m.

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EarlArmstrong writes:

Tahjaeu,
you cannot declare war on people and this is a forum of intellect. We are nonviolent and ready to use our minds, words, and actions to get results. I know the words of Bropous and 3dogdevilcat hurt like the name devil implies they intend to do, but you must be stronger then petty potshots and fightback with words of wisdom.

Heidi, your man was sick, and you had a serious problem for being with this man. The woman referred to here has three children with me, we have had that one incident, and we continue to work as friends and family to raise our three beautiful daughters. It was not habitual as in your case.

Bropous and 3dogdevilcat, it is obvious that you are police officers looking to slander me with your strategic propogandanizing of this story and me as someting evil, untrustworthy, and only worthy of flipping burgers. The manner in which you have scrutinized my writings to spin my intent has been admirable. Plus the added information about my two felonies for Drug Possession in which I did my probation for and never went to prison in reference too, shows me that you have access to information that only the law enforcement field possesses. Your objective and wish is that it will make me give up and run and stop working and seeking to make social, economic, and political changes for the African American and Latino communities. However, I am a soldier of the Lord's and I fear no man or entity but the Lord. The brutal assault you committed on my brother, Thomas Charles Armstrong, has only made me stronger and much much wiser. So I will continue working for peace, happiness, justice, and equality for my people until the day you all succeed in your Earl Armstrong objective.

ChildofGod, Devoted, Debator, Cain, Tahjaeu, and all the CCI family, especially our talented exiting senior class, I sincerely apologize for your mental anguish through all of this. I am humbled by your outlooks and opinions. I love you all and will only resign if the students and parents of CCI demand for me to do so. At CCI I feel as if I have found a home and family and I will hate to leave. I have high aspirations and ambitions I am planning to continue contributing to this beloved institution of all of ours. One good thing that this story has done, is made you all see the importance of your thinking and writing skills and how to voice your opinion with a critical perspective. Please remember this lesson and do not stop your quests for truth, justice, and knowledge.

Hole, if every memeber on here that is an adult does the same I have no problem accepting what with me is the obvious.

Keep the peace and end the violence of gangs, drugs, and police brutality!
May 17, 2008

12:31 p.m.

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brown4436 writes:

that pitcher thats at top of the article its trying to say that we don't take care of our stuff.If you look at the side of the bus it has CCI spray painted from someone playing around.Mr.bropus I have a question why would you go off of a paper than talk to the person yourself that is not fair to talk about my teacher like that. Earl Armstrong is like a father to me he has help me with work that I had done in his class .
May 19, 2008

12:15 p.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

Earl is wrong for what he did
May 19, 2008

12:22 p.m.

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ccistudent6 writes:

He made a mistake but I know u have made mistakes to
May 19, 2008

1:42 p.m.

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Devotedccistudent writes:

bropous are you there
May 21, 2008

11:22 a.m.

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jeau_roxz writes:

Wow You Really Excpect Me, A 12 Year Old Would Accually Believe That A TEACHER Would Be My "Babby's Daddy"? Ok Really! Do You Even THINK When You Post Reply's On Here? Besides I Don't Even Have A Baby!!!!!

Bropous I See No Reason For You To Try And Bring Bro. Earl Down In This Situation, Obveously The Girl Is A WOMAN! No Not A Kid Like Me....A Full Grown WOMAN.

Obveously He Didn't Kill Her,So Im Pretty Sure He Refused To Hit Her For Long Periods Of Time, But Surley Enough Does He Have No Right To Hit Back Just As You Possibly Would If Someone Hit You?
And YOU Were Annoid By Being Hit Lots Of Times?

Oh And By The Way Bro.Earl Im NOT DECLAIRING WAR
May 21, 2008

1:55 p.m.

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Heidi writes:

So tell me jeau_roxz, how many times is it acceptable for a man to hit a woman? Or what is the time limit? Just before she is to pass out? When she begins to plead for mercy?
May 21, 2008

5:17 p.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

“I know the words of Bropous and 3dogdevilcat hurt like the name devil implies they intend to do…” – Earl Armstrong

BWAHA BWAHAHAAA! You crack me up, Earl. I challenge you to quote ANYTHING in my posts where I said ANYTHING to these kids that that could be construed as an intent to “hurt” them. I made it a point to try and offer a rational, logical explanation to them about my views (about you and your criminal co-workers) WITHOUT attacking them. And, no… I’m not a police officer (pssst… your paranoia is showing, Earl). I’m simply a tax paying citizen with access to “google”; I typed in - “Earl Armstrong” Denver - and found, page after page after page of public records including your Denver Criminal cases (far too long to list them all here), case 2000EC33 when you were turned down to teach by the School Board in 2000, and – my personal favorite - a video on youtube (“Denver Copwatch outs plainclothes officers”) – among many other things.

I happen to think that CCI is serving a valid purpose; if they can clean some serious house, I hope they stay open. I am in complete support of “your” kids, Earl – but I do not support your employment at CCI or any other school. I pity you and your warped black and white view of life (pun intended), but YOU and ONLY YOU have ruined your ability to be a respectable leader and/or teacher because you are a drug using, weapon toting, cop hating, radical minded, HABITUAL criminal. RESPECT and OPPORTUNITY are EARNED, my friend, and your delusional attempts to paint yourself as a “reformed” criminal are, well… CRAZY. Reformed since when?? Since LAST YEAR when you were caught with DRUGS and a WEAPON when you whooped up on your woman… and yet you honestly feel that you deserve to be paid by the taxpaying citizens of Denver to teach our most precious commodity? Three words to you, Earl: PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY. CONSEQUENCES.

BTW, I was going to call myself: OurHouseholdIsHostToOneAmazinglyHandsomeDogTwoOlderThanDirtDogsAHamster(muchtomydismay)AndOneCrazy@$$MFCat... But I thought that might be too long.
May 22, 2008

11:25 a.m.

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3dogsand1devilcat writes:

Thanks Bropous… I was kinda stunned that he would actually point out my – very innocent -screen name to the students as if it was some kind of sign of “evilness” or conspiracy to hurt them. At the same time, it made me laugh and reminded me of Kathy Bates in Waterboy, “Foos-ball is the Devil” and then Adam Sandler, “Everything the Devil to you, Mama”.

I truly tried to keep my comments fact based. Unfortunately, the facts aren’t pretty in this case, so I’m sure – to Earl – blatantly pointing out his (or Brown’s) on-going criminal propensity or disagreeing with his extremist views makes him feel attacked. I actually said that Earl might be a good person (who has done many things that are NOT good) and that I thought he cared about these kids (I still do). He’s entitled to live his life any way he sees fit – and I never said he shouldn’t be allowed to make a living. I just said that – based on his criminal history - he shouldn’t be a teacher… and I stand by that assessment. No matter how long the debate (and this one has run its course) I don’t think that Earl has the ability to look at the facts and understand our views based on pure logic… I think he will simply see this as a witch hunt or white conspiracy and that’s truly unfortunate – especially since he’s a role model to these kids and bound to “enlighten” some of their minds to this way of thinking.

Did you happen to see that the self-proclaimed founder of the Crips gang in Colorado, Michael Asberry, (who was recently murdered) had been working at CCI as well? As much as people are trying to say that he was turning his life around, he had felony cases in 2006 and 2007. I don’t know what his role was at the school… probably (hopefully) not a teacher. For God-sakes, I’m somewhat open minded to giving REFORMED, let me say it again for effect, **REFORMED** criminals a chance… just not so open minded that my brains have fallen out. What’s with this school? Maybe they can entice OJ to come be their gym teacher – I hear he’s lookin’ for work.
May 22, 2008

3:49 p.m.

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jeau_roxz writes:

Yeah The RACIST SOUTH! Anyway Heidi The Answer To Your Question, Is That He Did Not Hit Her To The Point That She Was Begging For Mercy,And She Didnt Pass Out............So Bropous You Still Talking?

Man You Just Don't Give Up Do You? You Seen To Still Have Nothing More To Say To Me
About ANYTHING! But Bro.Earl, What Do You Honestly Think That Im Even Reading Your Comments?

Well You Can Keep Taking Your Sweet Time. Because Honestly Im Not Caring! Really You STILL Don't Know Anything About Me? But You Seem To Continue To Keep Replying.............Wow How Amazing Really Im REALLY caring!
May 24, 2008

8:29 a.m.

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brown4436 writes:

I have read the comments over the past few days and it saddens me when I see the ignorance displayed by certain people that choose to open their minds to us. Opinions should be respected to a certain degree but the ignorance causes great concern. This is a story about a school that has taken on our children and challenged themselves to educate them when the public school was not able to do it. The news went to the school originally to do a “success story” and decided that someone with a bad past would add better ratings. He used it as an opportunity to make it sound like felons where teaching the kids instead of moving boxes, cleaning toilets and mopping floors. Last time I checked blue collar work didn’t require a perfect record. I would assume that I am correct because we have people running the country with worse records and we applaud them for their stupidity. This is a slander session. Yes the vice principal screwed up BIG TIME. No doubt and he is being held accountable for that. His mistake should not be taken out on a school who has taken out loans used to provide a place of education for CHILDREN. The story was not balanced. Since it weighed heavily on the mistakes that is all that will be looked at. None of the positives Dr. Jones and CCI Inc. have accomplished will come to light because human beings are turned on by tragedy. We can only pray the investigations will show the true worth this school has. I challenge you to take a look at the true background of the school from every angle. So far the news has done nothing but do what it does best. Glamorize and embellish with the hopes of higher ratings. If the report included all of the successes the school has had as well as the mistakes it wouldn’t have been a story.
November 15, 2008

2:33 a.m.

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reeta25 writes:

Almost 42,000 pupils have been sent home for alcohol or drug-related reasons in the past four years, it emerged today.A total of 1,930 primary and secondary school children were expelled and a further 39,890 suspended between 2003-04 and the end of the 2006-07 year, the latest period for which figures are available.It also emerged that half a million under-18s said they had been able to buy alcohol in bars, and that those who drank regularly were more likely to commit criminal offences.
------------------------------------
Reeta
<a href="http://www.addictionlink.org/drug-reh... drug rehab</a>

Home › News › Education

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

Published May 12, 2008 at 8:18 p.m.Updated May 13, 2008 at 1:21 p.m.

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Published May 12, 2008 at 8:18 p.m.
Updated May 13, 2008 at 1:21 p.m.