(Enlarge) Julie Reybold, left, Faenita Dilworth and Towanda Mitchell discuss school suspensions March 6 in Reybold's home using data they have collected on suspension rates at Reservoir High School. While rates at the school have declined, the parents believe Reservoir suspends too many students, hampering their ability to keep up in classes and threatening their long-term education. (Staff photo by Sarah Pastrana)

It's Reservoir High School's suspension rate, and although school leaders have dramatically decreased the use of out-of-school suspensions in the past year, the issue remains a concern for several parents.

Kaufman, the Reservoir principal, said the school is proud of the dramatic drop in suspensions but also defends the punishment as necessary to maintaining school safety and security.

Reybold and other parents see a correlation between suspensions and student academic welfare: A suspension rate they attribute to a zero-tolerance disciplinary approach leads to fewer hours in the classrooms and ultimately, they fear, to lower academic scores and a higher dropout rate.

The issue at Reservoir -- balancing discipline with the need to keep pupils in the classroom -- is one that faces school systems across the state and across the country.

At least one state has taken drastic action: In 2008, Connecticut banned most out-of-school suspensions.

In Howard County, school leaders say they've developed interventions other than suspensions for the past two decades, while a state task force recently examined the issues of students who receive multiple suspensions.

At Reservoir, a small band of parents, led by Reybold, has made it their mission in the past two years to draw attention to the matter. Reservoir, among the county's largest high schools with 1,566 students this year, has had the highest cumulative number of suspensions in the county the past six years and among the highest suspension rates overall several of those years.

"Our issue is oversight and accountability," said Reybold, who has two sons at the school and one who graduated in 2008. "I don't believe zero-tolerance is good for children.

"We're trying to keep kids in the classroom. You have to give a teenager room to learn from their mistakes and fix the mistakes. A zero-tolerance policy doesn't do that. It's one and done."

'Proud of what we did'

Kaufman admits to being strict, although she disagrees with the contention she has a zero-tolerance policy and said the school has made major strides toward lowering the suspension rate by working with student focus groups, counselors, social workers and parents.

The school hit a high of 258 suspensions in the 2007-08 school year, and the number dropped to 147 last school year. From August to early December 2009, the school had 47 suspensions, down from 82 in 2008 and 90 in 2007 for the same period, according to Kaufman, who has been principal at Reservoir since it opened in 2002.

"We are really proud of what we did last year," Kaufman said. "To me, this is the way it's supposed to be: You look at your data, you see a problem, and you fix it."

"I don't personally believe suspending is always the answer, but I have to maintain the safety and security of the school building. I believe students and staff need to feel safe in the environment in which they teach and learn. All people need boundaries and need to know what the rules are.

"We're moving in the right direction."

Parents in Reybold's group would like to see more controls placed on principals' disciplinary powers and broader reforms aimed at keeping kids in school. Reybold points to the 2007-08 school year, when Reservoir students missed 1,148 days of school due to suspensions, compared to a countywide average at the other 11 high schools of 493 missed days.

The parent group also disputes some of the suspension figures the county reports to the Maryland State Department of Education, which the parents say are lower than numbers they gathered through public information requests and from reports at the school level. For instance, the system reported to the state 23 in-school suspensions at Reservoir in the 2007-2008 school year, while the parent group says there were 167 such incidents that year, according to a report in Reservoir's School Improvement Plan.

The parents declined to address their children's suspension records, and school officials are not allowed to discuss them. Reybold said their efforts to change suspension policies are not a personal vendetta.

Not everyone is critical of Kaufman's leadership, and many parents at the school staunchly support the principal.

One of those parents, PTSA president Lynn Martins, said the parent community has worked "aggressively" to put measures in place to encourage students academically and socially.

Martins added that she believes suspensions are at times justified, since one chronically disruptive student can hamper learning for an entire class.

"High suspensions aren't necessarily a bad thing when you're looking at safety and where you want to send your kids," she said. "The other children suffer, too. That's where the balance comes in."

State, county guidelines

Under state law and the county's Student Code of Conduct, a principal may suspend a student for up to 10 days for reasons ranging from insubordination to bullying to cheating. Students also may be subject to in-school suspensions, which occur in a designated room, require students to continue working on class assignments and are generally reserved for less serious violations.

Suspensions longer than 10 days, and those related to specific types of infractions (all matters dealing with weapons, assaults on staff, and second offenses in drug and alcohol matters) must be reviewed by the superintendent.

Towanda Mitchell, vice president of Reservoir's Gator African American Parents group, said she is concerned not only about the number and length of suspensions at Reservoir, but also about the high number of black male students who are suspended.

"It's not only a Reservoir issue, it's a Howard County issue. It's an across-the-country issue," Mitchell said. "No one is overseeing, or checking, or challenging what the administration can do.

"The bottom line is, when you take those kids out of class, the ability for them to catch up is lost. Of course they're going to suffer."

The issue of black student suspensions is one hammered at year after year by the county branch of the NAACP in its annual "report card" to the school system.

Faenita Dilworth, a parent of a Howard High School graduate, who is involved with the county chapter of the NAACP and the PTA Council of Howard County, said she became interested in the Reservoir parent group's mission because the issue of minority suspensions is of concern to her.

"If we're the best, why can't we fix this?" she said. "We present the report card every year, but there's no policy to go behind it. It needs to be consistent across the county.

"We can't have the principal at Reservoir doing one thing and the principal at Oakland Mills doing something else. No, that won't work. It's got to be standard. Then the parents are better able to address it."

Tracking suspensions

Although the Reservoir parents say they have received little feedback from school system brass, they have garnered the attention of one of the county's state lawmakers, who says he is considering their request for a better system of tracking suspension data.

Del. Guy Guzzone, a Columbia Democrat, said the Reservoir parents approached him about sponsoring legislation aimed at greater scrutiny of suspension rates.

He said he was researching the issue but had not yet decided to propose a bill.

"The question they asked that seemed reasonable is, should there be data that's available statewide to compare and raise questions?," Guzzone said. "I believe the information is available. It might not be easily accessible. It might not be in a good format. Whether that requires legislation, I'm not sure."

State lawmakers, as recently as the 2009 session, stepped into the issue by no longer allowing suspensions for attendance or tardiness-related issues beginning this school year.

Reybold sees the need for more substantial change, like that enacted in Connecticut, where out-of-school suspensions were banned in 2008, except in extreme cases.

A recent study by the Advancement Project, a national civil rights organization, suggests that overly strict school discipline, paired with high-stakes testing, is a recipe for student failure.

Released in January, the study "Test, Punish, and Push Out: How Zero Tolerance and High-Stakes Testing Funnel Youth into the School to Prison Pipeline" argues that the two factors are "mutually reinforcing."

Reybold said the study's findings are part and parcel of her concerns with Reservoir.

School system spokeswoman Patti Caplan said the county has been developing other types of interventions for two decades (see related story, "Tracking behavior early key in cutting suspensions").

"We don't want the kids out of school unless there's a real threat there or a serious infraction," Caplan said. "We want them in school and available for learning."

The ability for officials to track and compare student records of all kinds should become easier with the launch of a long-awaited new Student Information Management System, Caplan added.

Balanced approach

David Bruzga, a school system administrative director who serves as Kaufman's supervisor, said she has taken a good team approach to addressing behavior and suspensions at Reservoir (see related story, "Lowering Reservoir rate a team effort").

"Balancing mercy with justice is a real hard thing for any school administrator. I think (Kaufman) makes a good effort to do that," Bruzga said, adding that he reviews suspension rates every month.

The county's Student Code of Conduct outlines a range of consequences, from a verbal reprimand to expulsion, for more than 20 types of offenses. Principal discretion is necessary because all infractions are situational, Bruzga said.

"You have to consider all the circumstances; that's why we give our administrators that range of consequences," he said. "That's what we pay them for, to make decisions."

Kaufman said she believes principals need a certain amount of latitude to suit the "different personalities" of schools.

"I am strict. I won't deny that," she said. "I have very high standards for my students and my staff."

There are two specific offenses for which Kaufman said she has no tolerance -- fighting and cursing at a teacher.

"Will there be parents and others who disagree with the decision I make? Of course. But the key here is safety and if the vast majority of my students and staff feel that I'm treating them fairly and consistently, and they feel cared for and nurtured, then I'm doing my job well," Kaufman said.

PTSA president Martins said she applauds Kaufman for her consistency and also for her support of PTSA-led initiatives designed to deter misbehavior by encouraging students academically. She mentioned a free weekend tutoring program at Savage Library and a "Renaissance" program that rewards students not only for high marks but for good attendance and showing academic improvement.

Also among Kaufman's supporters is Madge Johnson, who has taught culinary classes at Reservoir since it opened.

"I've been teaching a long time, in two different states and three different counties in Maryland. I left one school because of a weak principal," she said. "I prefer to work with and for a principal who's strong because otherwise what's the point of being there?

"If you don't have a strong principal, you don't feel safe. Things go crazy. Everyone wants to do it their own way."

But parents like Mitchell and Reybold said they still see room for improvement.

"They're being academically handicapped because of the time out of the classroom," Reybold said of suspended students. "The one thing we all agree on is: They can't be successful if they're not in the classroom."

user comments (64)

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

I can't understand why a VERY small group of parents would want to continually highlight RHS as a school with major problems. This is nothing more that a "slap in the face" to all the wonderful teachers, who work very hard every day to educate our kids, and the overwhelming majority of students who are there to receive a great education. RHS students, on behalf of the many parents who proud you are a "Gator", please don't let this bad publicity effect your education and school spirit!

Posted 10:05 AM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

Interesting group of 3 concerned parents; one is parent at Howard HS, one no longer has kids at RHS, leaving the "concerned parents" group to one current RHS parent........

Posted 11:17 AM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user rhsparent says...

I believe that the most important issue highlighted in this article is the lack of accountability for Howard County school administrators. As a parent that has been concerned with a number of issues at Reservoir, I have found it extremely frustrating when attempting to obtain action or responses to those concerns. The administrations at Reservoir and at the county level become defensive and try to dismiss concerns out of hand. While I agree with rhhsstudentadvocate that Reservoir has many fine teachers and other fine qualities, the truth is that its suspension rate has been dramatically higher than that of other Howard County schools. Another truth is that Reservoir lags behind most other Howard County high schools in terms of objective measures of academic achievement. In addition, despite the "tough" disciplinary approach at Reservoir, the number of flights -- including serious fights -- seems to have increased recently. Yet, when parents attempt to discuss these issues with school administrators, parents are routinely told that Reservoir is a terrific, well-run school. Perhaps it is, but I would be more likely to be convinced if the school system was willing to serious discuss some of these issues and possible means to address them.

Posted 11:33 AM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user shocked says...

Ms. Reybold correctly stated the issue as “oversight and accountability”. It is disturbing that data reported to the Howard County Department of Education which indicated excessive suspensions since the school opened in 2002 was not acted upon until 2008. The article is not a challenge to the hard working teaching staff at Reservoir High School or the students as the first user suggests. The challenge is regarding the judgment of the Principal on the issue of discipline and the ineffective oversight and response provided by the Howard County Department of Education. The principal acknowledged and acted on the problem after mounting pressure. This demonstrates the complacency of the Howard County Department of Education and its Board of Directors when it comes to providing oversight.

Posted 11:46 AM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

"Towanda Mitchell, vice president of Reservoir's Gator African American Parents group, said she is concerned not only about the number and length of suspensions at Reservoir, but also about the high number of black male students who are suspended." Of course, if a large number of black male students are suspended, it has to be due to racism. No, it couldn't be that black males are more prone to behavior problems, as evidenced by the overwhelming majority of our state's inmates being black males. Ms. Mitchell should be more concerned with the upbringing, or lack thereof, that the suspended students are receiving. It must be that it is easier cry racism than look in the mirror. Typical.

Posted 11:52 AM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user howcow says...

Hmm, let me guess...all the parents in this 'group' have had their kids suspended, no? It's a shame to give this front page when the 'news' is most likely from a tiny group of parents. Talk about accountability, howabout kids being accoutable for their actions? Remember back in the day when that used to happen? My kid goes to Reservoir and i've never heard of unwarranted suspensions. Alot of suspensions? Maybe. Deserved suspensions? Every case I heard of, yes. I applaud Mrs. Kaufman to refer to herself as strict. I want my kid in a strict school. And remember, strict today is still a minimal threshold to pass versus what strict really used to mean...you know, the good old days when kids were accountable for their actions.

Posted 12:30 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user says...

Interesting that the assumption of "givemeabreak' is racism because I did not see Towanda Mitchell make this statement. There is a task force report from the Maryland Department of Education that talks about suspensions. If "givemeabreak" wants to become more educated on what this statement could mean, google "Maryland Department of Education African Male Suspensions". What is not mentioned in this article is that one of the highest susapension reasons was for "disrespect" at RHS, not safety-related issues. Dr. Sydney Cousins instituted the concept of "Cultural Proficiency" in Howard County for a reason. The reason is that a lot of the teachers/administrators of the HCPSS and people in Howard County need to know how to interface with the various cultures in Howard County. The assumption as the user "givemeabreak" states is "...the upbringing, or lack thereof, that the suspended students are receiving." it is more a problem of how different familiy cultures interact and expectations of how they should be treated/respected. In Howard County, most non-black teachers are intimidated to confront a non-white student, the statistics show this. That resistance is not always due to a fear for their life...as it insinuated in this article. Everyone needs to be more comfortable with understanding one another and not making an assumption that one race's way of doing something is the right way. The user "givemeabreak" should consider the cultural proficiency course...it is their kind of thinking that is attempted to be addressed.

Posted 12:49 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user atholtongrad says...

I was a student when Ms. Kaufman as Assistant Principal at Atholton and she was the best administrator there. I also have a nephew that goes to Reservoir and was very happy when I found out that she was the Principal. Ms. Kaufman might be "strict" but it is to keep the student safe and an a very well mannered learning environment which is what we send are kids to school for. As for it being a race thing there is no way. Ms. Kaufman cares about every student and if there is a higher suspensions then she is making sure our kids are safe and learning.

Posted 12:53 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

To address "howcow", from what I know, none of the parents in the article has had their child suspended at RHS. The article mentions that one of the parents children went to Howard High, not RHS. There are some parents who care about the community as a whole, not just their children.

Posted 1:03 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

She didn't have to make the statement, it is called reading between the lines. Why exactly would there be a "Reservoir's Gator African American Parents group" outside of the normal PTA, unless it was attempting to combat issues faced only by black students. Since black students are in the same classrooms, being taught by the same teachers as all other students, the only thing that the black parents group would address that is not already handled by the PTA is alleged racism. Additionally, based on my experience, groups like the one that she represents are obssessed with pointing out the differences between the handling of black students, and everytime they are asked why black kids are supposedly singled out, the answer is racism. Moreover, the black community at large attempts to keep the race debate alive, otherwise, they would be placed on a level playing field with everyone else, would be in the same spot they are now, and wouldn't have white people to blame. "it is more a problem of how different familiy cultures interact and expectations of how they should be treated/respected." No, it is about a small segment of our society who won't fall in line, play by the rules, work hard, and educate themselves. Who cares how people think they should be treated? "In Howard County, most non-black teachers are intimidated to confront a non-white student, the statistics show this." What statistics??? Gee, I wonder why the teachers are afraid to confront them??? Could it be because the teacher is racist, or could it just be the based on the teachers experiences in the classroom, that these kids are more violent? Since you like statistics, here's one for you: Per the FBI, only 25% of Maryland's population is black, yet over 75% of the prisons are black. Is this all due to racism? I bet the "Reservoir's Gator African American Parents group" thinks so. No wonder the teachers are afraid of these kids.

Posted 1:07 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

"What is not mentioned in this article is that one of the highest susapension reasons was for 'disrespect' at RHS, not safety-related issues." 1) "disrespect" becomes a safety issue if it goes unchecked 2) this is not surprising at all, most blacks I come across fail to treat anyone with respect, yet demand that they be respected w/o earning it. This is due to the sense of entitlement that comes with the race card they carry.

Posted 1:16 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

rhsparent, Based on your comments, I assume you are one of the small group putting RHS in this unfavorable light. As you are well aware, Sidney Cousin, Patty Caplan, a host of other county staff and RHS adminstrators have been involved in countless hours of addressing your issues. I applaud your group for bringing this up 3 years ago, however since then real changes in suspension rate have occurred. You are misstating the facts about HCPSS and the time and effort they have invested in this issue. Your group is losing all credibility when you are loose with the facts!

Posted 1:21 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

settherecordstraight, lets really set the record straight, this is about 1 parent's personal dislike for a school administrator due to relatively minor run-ins with this parents kids at RHS. Nothing more! Also, who would EVER agree to have their picture taken for a story like this?

Posted 2:34 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user bebetter says...

I applaud Kaufman's comment "to look at data, see a problem, and fix it". The timeline indicates that school administration had the suspension data for years and did not act on it until the issue was raised by persistent and concerned parents.Then and only then was the team of school county services brought in. When they analyzed the data, issues were apparent that RHS was severe in handing out suspensions and that there were several internal problems that have since been fixed (for example, a few teachers were identified as frequent source of many office referrals; they have received training in classroom management). The team has put many improvements in place. However, the data had not been analyzed or looked at critically even though it was available. Since the school system had the data and was remiss/negligent in not seeing a problem and fixing it, then it is encumbent upon concerned parents and students to look at the data, see the problem and call for a fix to make the school as good as it can be.

Posted 2:52 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

It is unfortunate that people are not looking at the content of the article, but rather attacking the parents who are trying to rectify a concern. While RHS is making great progress, the fact is that it took the issue, which was occurring 3 years ago, being raised by concerned parents for the problem to be addressed. To address "givemeabreak", did you notice that the PTA was not involved in exposing the suspension disparity of RHS? When PTA was asked to be involved, they refused to touch this with a 10-foot pole. This is why parent groups have been formed...funny how you don't complain about the other parent groups in RHS...ever wonder why they felt a need to be formed? The reality is that checks and balances need to be in place so the principal at ANY school does not have the ability do do anything he/she wishes. Get past the personal likes/dislikes of people who participated in the writing of this article and deal with the fact that the issue exposed is a valid concern. Unless exposure remains on issues, they go away. I am thankful that some parents have enough strength to shed light on a topic such as this in spite of the fact that they knew there would be attacks such as these. It shows the intimidation techniques that have existed for so long to keep people quiet. Guess what, it didn't work this time. Kudos to the ladies who stood for what they believe is right for the community. Most people don't know what courage it takes to do this because they wimp out from the pressure that comes along with standing for what you believe.

Posted 2:55 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user says...

I suggest that Towanda Mitchell, the VP of the Gator African American group at RHS and Mrs. Reybold take a few hours a week and take the students who were suspended and mentor them. Since Mrs. Reybold is "so concerned" about the school these youngsters are missing, perhaps she would invite a few of them over to her home and let them do homework and play outside with her children. Why not try a little one on one time with the kids, Mrs. Reybold? How about you too, Ms. Mitchell? There were only a handful of kids. Surely if you have time to donate to this ridiculous and biased article you could put your time and energy into helping youngsters who need better guidance than they are getting at Reservoir. Or at home. I would hope that each member of the Gator African American group would "adopt" an at risk student and mentor them. Reservoir serves a very diverse, multi-cultural community. Kids of all backgrounds and walks of life get detention or suspended. But many more of the students excel thanks to the dedication of the teachers and staff at Reservoir. What happened that caused so many children to be suspended happened OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL. They bring it inside the school and that cannot be tolerated. Every high school in Howard County has to have a police officer. All sporting events have security guards now. Making Reservoir look bad is a shame. It is an excellent school. We can all quote statistics and make them say what we want. Mrs. Reybold's vendetta against Dr. Kaufman is well known in the community. You provided her with a great soapbox. The suspensions were not about race. They were about ugly nasty fights between kids who do not have coping skills and spend their time on FACEBOOK and cell phone instead of learning or studying. Do you know that students can now go to high school until they are 21? If either Mrs. Reybold's child or Mrs. Mitchell's child was bullyed or hurt or caught in the middle of one of these fights, the shoe would be on the other foot, wouldn't it? If a 21 year old who does not wish to work, or really go to school, but comes to "socialize" and fight hurts a 14 year old 9th grader, what happens then? By the way there are special programs that benefit ONLY AFRICAN AMERICAN students. Guess what? The kids who need it the most in many instances, do not come and do not participate. The truth is if you do NOT suspend or give consequences for bad behavior, then not just the suspended students miss school, ALL THE STUDENTS OF RESERVOIR miss out on an education. Dr. Kaufman is an outstanding administrator. I would love to see either one of those women walk in her shoes for one week.

Posted 4:26 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user stopcrying says...

I am so tired of parents crying every year about suspension rates! Teacher your children to respect the policies set forth by the school system! The parents that have so much to say would not last a week working in these schools as it is always easier to be a back seat driver. Work with and support your teachers and administrators instead of against them because you think you know best. Parents and children today always have an excuse for WHY they can't follow the policies set forth by the governing bodies whether that is local, state, and federal laws and policies. The future sure looks bright! Stop blaming everyone else and look in the mirror...... Teach your children the meaning of respect because one day the lack of respect by others could come back to bite them and then you will cry and curse the schools for not enforcing the policies you do not teacher your children to respect and by then it might be too late for your children to recover from. Really BAD things can happen if we do not teach our children to respect the policies set forth. Have a good night and STOP CRYING and be part of the solution not the problem......

Posted 4:55 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user ginaepps says...

Why was Gator African American Parents, formed at RHS and why is it still in existence? Because of people who believe, even if just one person, that black males are “more prone to behavioral problems” than white males. We are here because our students black, white, Asian, Latino and every other nationality at RHS’s have endured racial comments and threats on the wall of the bathrooms targeted at students and the administration, teachers making racial comments to students threatening them with bodily harm and telling them that they are so inconsequential that they cannot tell one from the other. These issues, while only directed at black students, had to be endured by all students, whom by the way were appalled by the comments and incidents. I hear you all speaking about safe; don’t all students get to feel safe? Gator African American Parents have never once excluded any nationality from participating in any of our activities. I, the President of this organization, love all people, children especially because they get it right. It does not phase them in the least what color or nationality someone is; it is us, the parents that always make this an issue. Do I feel that GAAP is needed to speak to the issue facing black students; absolutely. Because I am pro-black, does that make me anti-white or anti any other nationality; absolutely not. Are there issues that need to be spoken to in reference to black males especially? Absolutely! As evident by the comments made here in this blog and by the issues that I spoke of above. I really hate that we are still having these kinds of conversations, our children aren’t! Back to the topic of suspension, yes there are issues, yes they are being dealt with; however, the fact still remains without the community, administration and board coming together and discussing these issues, I do not believe that this problem of suspension would have been addressed; no because the issue of excessive suspensions and suspending for attendance to my knowledge was not viewed as an issue until it was brought to forefront. There was a student that had been suspended for 22 days, if the parent had not been diligent and pressed their way to the Board of Education, this student would have been unfairly disciplined. Because of the parents diligence all but 3 days were expunged. If the suspension practice was valid, would the Board of Education have expunged this student’s record? The student was still out of the classroom for 22 days leaving them 22 days behind everyone else. This student too, would like to see that “level playing field”. The punishment in this case was excessive, are all the cases of suspension excessive, not valid; NO. Do there need to be checks and balances; YES. Like any good parent we all need to be present and active in our students’ education. There are great teachers and administrators at RHS, do they all always get things right; NO and neither do we (parents) We, RHS parents, administration and faculty need to get ourselves together and learn to come together for the betterment of ALL RHS students. We need to continue to do the hard work addressing the issues that arise. We are not always going to agree, but I do expect us to be able to respectfully have a conversation, I do expect that if an issue is raised that it be taken seriously, investigated and properly addressed if valid, taking whatever action is necessary. Suspension is not a black or a white issue, safety is not a black or white issue, we all want our students to be safe. So whether it is a fight in the school by black students or a racial threats written on the walls of the bathroom by white students, both issues affects all of our students. Now is there some work that remains to be done, YES, are there issues to be addressed; YES , is RHS a great community, a great school for our students to learn and grow in, YES. However, for RHS to continue to be a great school for ALL students and parents we ALL have to continue to work hard and together to make that happen. Let’s all get together face to face and talk, like the adults that we are.

Posted 7:22 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user elprof says...

This is in a word...INSANITY. People, listen to yourselves. Get real. The bottom line is this: there are many good parents in this community who actually spend the time to parent their kids. They take the time to be with their kids, talk with their kids and really get to know their kids. Then you have these other parents who all they want is to be friends with their kids. They want their kids to like them and treat them like their little buddies on the street. If we take a step back and examine why the kids in this county are so disrespectful...maybe we should take a look at the so-called parents. Students in this county use disgusting language and use it with adults, and expect that the administration will simply accept that this is the way it is, because of cultural background. GIVE US ALL A BREAK. People, get your heads out of your behinds and start really giving some serious thought as to what the REAL problem is. Maybe then we can start to have a real dialogue about why there are so many issues with student behavior in this county.

Posted 7:52 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user guest123 says...

To ginaepps...you say you want to work together, and you say that it is not a black or white issue, yet you choose to approach it through the "Gator African American Parents" If this is not a racial issue, then why do you address it using a group named for the advocacy of YOUR RACE? You can't fight racism with racism. If you truly care about working together to address these issues, then drop the GAAP and stop only fighting for the concerns of YOUR race. Who do you think you are kidding?

Posted 8:25 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

settherecordstraight: "To address 'givemeabreak', did you notice that the PTA was not involved in exposing the suspension disparity of RHS? When PTA was asked to be involved, they refused to touch this with a 10-foot pole." That is b/c the PTA knew it was BS. Those kids probably deserved to get suspended, and the parents are now whining b/c their kids actions have brought attention to the lack of proper parenting that is taking place. ginaepps: "Because I am pro-black." That says it all right there. I am pro-American myself, and I wouldn't care about race at all if it wasn't for whiners like you. Every day, I have to read on every news source about how bad black people have it in this country. If you really want to change the public's perception of young black males, teach them to stop living up to every single negative stereotype. "These issues, while only directed at black students." Hmmm, why were "These issues" only directed at black students??? Could it be that the ultra-progressive, liberal school system is somehow out to get black students? Or could it be because the black student who have to deal with "these issues" misbehaved and had to be punished? I love this quote: "Because of people who believe, even if just one person, that black males are “more prone to behavioral problems” than white males." I am one of those who believes this, and it is because that is what the numbers tell us, and based on my personal experiences. I went to Oakland Mills high, and it was 35% black at the time. While blacks made up only a third of the school, they made up 80% of the drop-outs, suspension magnets, fighters, drug dealers, and kids held back a grade because of poor attendance and terrible grades. This took place even though the school would go out of its way to try to assist each of these kids. Bottom line, the parents are not doing a good job raising their kids, the school is dealing with their behavior the best way possible (removing the cancer), and the parents are upset because they would have to look in the mirror if they didn't have the big, bad, white bogey man to blame for everything. Weak.

Posted 10:28 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

Givemeabreak, guess the PTA didn't know much because even Dr. Kaufman knew she needed to create a school-based intervention team to address the problems at RHS. The PTA (actually called PTSA for Parent, Teacher, Student Association) made a decision to not become involved in a valid issue that affects the community they are supposed to represent. Guess the RHS PTA wasn't a good judge of what is BS and what isn't....because everyone else realized it wasn't BS, but was valid once the facts were presented. What's even more sad, still today, you defend the stance the PTA took...and you wonder why parent groups exist. Your response answers your own question. The decision-makers of the PTA made a decision not to get involved "...b/c the PTA knew it was BS." This article says a lot about what the PTA knows, doesn't it! The school principal and Board of Education acknowledge it was a problem, but the PTA still does not. WOW, that speaks volumes about RHS' PTA.

Posted 11:38 PM, 03.11.10 | Permalink

user independent says...

Parents can be problematic in children's behavior issues when they choose to befriend rather than lead, and there does seem to be quite a bit of this as parents are working and recreating, having very little time to combat and painstakingly work with a persistent teen. But also some children are born to be incredibly difficult. A professional family counselor relays a story about an middle aged couple who adopted a baby after their own children were grown and well off. The adoptive parents were shocked at the behavior of the child as he/she grew. They were so confident in their parenting skills, reinforced by the success of their biological children that they were ill prepared for parenting a biologically difficult child.

Posted 7:23 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user rhsparent says...

Many seem to be missing the point that Reservoir's suspension rate was dramatically higher than ALL other high schools in Howard County, regardless of breakdown by socio-economic, racial or other factors. So, unless all teenagers in southeastern Howard County are more prone to behavior that leads to suspension, the disparity was a problem that should have been addressed earlier by the school system. If parents had not been involved and incredibly persistent, the issue would not have been identified or acted upon by the administration or established groups such as the PTSA. I find the assumptions that only parents with children that have been suspended would be interested in this to be ridiculous. Mine have not, but that doesn't mean I should ignore the issue.

Posted 8:00 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user says...

A lot of comments on this blog refer to parents befriending their children instead of being parents...I agree with that, a parent must play the role of a parent regardless of what color they are because parents of ALL races have this challenge. But, what I find even more disturbing are when groups, such as PTSA, are supposed to represent the community, but are more concerned and focused on being buddies with the principal. Dr. Kaufmann has the PTSA wrapped around her finger at RHS and always has. The PTSA is more concerned about the warm and fuzzies such as staff appreciation breakfast, lunches, etc - all the things that make Dr. Kaufman look good, not about addressing real issues. There were multiple issues at RHS that the PTSA did nothing about...when Dr. Kaufmann locked all the bathrooms in the school except 1 each for boys and girls on the first floor because graffitti was being written on the bathroom walls, guess what PTA did when it was brought to their attention - NOTHING (you may be wondering why Dr. Kaufmann did this, well it was her way of getting the students to snitch by withholding their rights to go to any bathroom - how many students could make it to the bathroom on the first floor between classes and not be late to class?), when murder threats were made to students on the bathroom walls and parents wanted it to be handled as a hate-crime by the police, guess what the PTSA did - NOTHING, when the German teacher threatened to lynch a student in front of the whole school, guess what PTSA did - you got it, NOTHING including not making a statement of disgust although some of the non-black students confirmed what was said by the teacher to the student. You heard what was said about the uncovering of the suspension numbers by givemeabreak, they admittedly did nothing because they knew ",,,it was BS". I guess the PTSA considered all of these things BS also. The good thing, each and every one of these issues were addressed because the GAAP did what they were supposed to do and confronted Dr. Kaufmann and demanded rectification of the issues which compelled her to take action. Although Dr. Kaufmann did not give GAAP credit for raising the issue on these suspension numbers, it was GAAP who brought it to her attention in front of the Board of Education and other community groups. Was any PTSA representative at this meeting with Dr. Kaufmann when the numbers were unveiled - NO! Were they invited - YES! Did GAAP ask the PTSA to join in these other causes, yes, in each and every one of these situations. Regardless of who the GAAP president was, the group has always tried to work in harmony with PTSA to have a joint stance on the issues that came up at RHS and PTSA declined every time to become involved. If parents do not get involved and believe that an organization is protecting their rights and their students rights, they are sadly mistaken. Look at the track record of the organization instead of assuming that is true. Why should any parent group in RHS continue to pursue PTSA when they have shown they do not support the community as a whole? Guess RHS PTSA is upset because they are not in total control at RHS - typical for a group of people who believes they are entitled to ALWAYS have things go their way.

Posted 8:33 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

Hey userguest123, I guess that closing all the bathrooms in the school but 1 only affected the Black students in the school? I guess that the students hearing the German teacher threaten a student only affected the Black students too. You know who is shallow in Howard County, the parents, not the students. The students know when things are wrong and the speak out about it, regardless of the race. If you want GAAP to go away, then ensure the PTSA represents all community groups' concerns! Who are you kidding...PTSA is the group representing only one race, GAAP has focused on school issues that affect ALL students, has PTSA done the same...you will surely see that the answer is "No" when you read the blog above! The concern of GAAP existing in RHS means they are doing the right thing, because it is making people uncomfortable. GAAP, keep doing what you do...it is making a difference.

Posted 8:43 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user says...

One of things I find so disheartening about this whole situation is why we can't work together to help the students themselves. To address the issues with the "parent" group. First, I find it interesting that no where in the article does it mention the Ms. Dilworth used to substitute teach at RHS. The article also fails to highlight the fact that this parent group also tried, and failed, to find a correlation between the school's staff turnover and Dr. Kaufman's leadership. As it turns out, her staff likes working for her. Another thing not mentioned in the article is Mrs. Reybold's apparent dislike for all institutions with a zero-tolerance policy, the National Honor Society included. The reality of this situation is that there are too many factors in play for this to be black and white, cut and dry. Did RHS have too many suspensions in 07-08, absolutely. Despite the fact that the school's population continued to increase (adding a total of 5 portables to a school less than 10 years old) the administration worked very hard to bring suspension rates down. Dr. Kaufman is imperfect, and there is always room for improvement. But I wonder what these parents suggest with do with students who are being suspended? Life on the other side of high school isn't any easier. College is a rough wake up call when they suddenly don't get any 2nd, or 3rd or 4th chances. I agree that teenagers need to learn from their mistakes, but Dr. Kaufman's job is to protect the whole, not coddle the few. Recently the number of fights at RHS have increased, mainly due to an insidious Facebook page. Students are not allowed to access Facebook at school, although they most probably try. These kids are bringing problems from HOME in to the school and physically attacking each other. Its the parent's job to make sure their child is using the internet appropriately and not bullying other children. The school staff can't stop kids from accessing the internet at home or on their phones once the day is over, but Mrs. Reybold and her friends are holding RHS and Dr. Kaufman responsible for the mess that it leaves behind.

Posted 9:03 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user howcow says...

I love it how some are focusing on the PTSA to solve all their ills. Most kid's issues at school can usually be traced back to teachers. Parents need to work directly with their kids teachers to resolve any real or perceived issues. Teachers are the ones that usually initiate the suspensions. Many parents would rather hide behind a faceless acronym to solve all their ills and don't want to do the dirty work of interacting with teachers one on one as a first step. In today's day and age with instant communication on blogs, email, and forums like this, bad administrators, teachers, etc. are exposed soon enough. What are RHS's statistics on suspensions--how much higher are they then the other schools...can someone tell us? What does it say if RHS has so many suspensions, yet still continue to have lots of disciplinary issues? There were like 3 seperate fights just a few days ago. You think it would be a nicer school if the suspension rate were lower? I applaud Dr. Kaufman and her administration for maintaining at least a perception of strictness at a school that deals with a wide spectrum of kids and the obvious tension that can come with that territory, realizing the word strict these days has no weight to it like decades ago. And most suspensions are just a day or two, so you can't argue the kid is missing much school. Just like being out sick.

Posted 9:20 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user gatorswe says...

I woke up feeling enormously sad today. As I re-read the comments posted in response to this article, I realized that this feeling of loss arose from the alarming speed with which a discussion of Reservoir's troubling suspension rates exploded into an ugly "us" against "them" debate. That one writer felt compelled to refer to a group of students as a "cancer" to be removed is frightening. To dehumanize any individual or group of individuals in this way is far, far more dangerous to our community than any act of disrespect or even fighting for which students may be suspended. I have always considered one of Reservoir's greatest strengths to be the economic, ethnic and cultural diversity of its student population. My hope is that WE can all garner this strength to respectfully and with open-minds discuss and solve the issues facing our children.

Posted 9:27 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

Finally, a good question on this forum, thank you howcow! Gina Epps stated on this blog who she was and it is my understanding that a comprehensive report regarding the suspensions were provided to Dr. Kaufmann and staff. I am sure you can get the information from Gina Epps if you ask. Then...you will become educated about what this article is all about! The first step is admitting that you do not know...again, try goggling Maryland Depaartment of Education African male suspensions to see the task force report if you want even more education on the topic.

Posted 9:36 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

settherecordstraight: "The school principal and Board of Education acknowledge it was a problem, but the PTA still does not." Of course the principal and BOE recognize it as a problem. If they didn't, they would get blasted in the media and by "special" parent groups. This is nothing more than kids acting up, being dealt with, and the parents crying about it. "PTSA is the group representing only one race." Wow...Yes, in HoCo, one of the most liberal counties in the state, where everyone is so afraid of not being PC, the PTA is only concerned about white kids, and are willing to take an open stance against non-white children. Paranoid delusion. "unless all teenagers in southeastern Howard County are more prone to behavior that leads to suspension." I would say that they are more prone to behavior problems. That is where Laurel sits in the county, and I would be willing to bet that a majority of the kids that are causing the issues at RHS are from Laurel. Before RHS was built, those kids would go to Atholton, and would be fighting, dealing drugs, and getting suspended, just like the kids today. gatorswe: "To dehumanize any individual or group of individuals in this way is far, far more dangerous to our community than any act of disrespect or even fighting for which students may be suspended." I agree, but the fact of the matter is that these people dehumanize themselves by refusing to work hard, stay focused, and take advantage of the fact that they are receiving the best high school education available. Instead, they act up, and then complain when they get punished.

Posted 9:41 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user forthestudents says...

"Most kid's issues at school can usually be traced back to teachers." Teachers in Howard County High Schools spend 50 minutes a day with 20+ students in each room. How can the teachers be responsible for the behavior issues a student displays. A teacher's role is to protect the learning experience. Certainly the teacher writes the referral, but they have no control over what consequences are given. Are you implying that its faulty teachers that cause students to misbehave. Its no wonder students don't show any respect for their instructors when people in the community and their own parents undermine the importance of respecting teachers as human beings, not just drones to be ignored and cursed at. For the most part, barring some obvious problems, teachers at RHS are working their butts off to foster LEARNING. Isn't that what this is all about, LEARNING? Being suspended is a lesson to be learned, just like everything else that teachers are trying to teach.

Posted 9:58 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

settherecordstraight: "try goggling Maryland Depaartment of Education African male suspensions to see the task force report if you want even more education on the topic." I did this and read some of the report. I like this quote,"And while he is ultimately responsible for his own learning, many of the young men we talked to said it’s not that they don’t respond to education; it’s that they don’t respond to what passes for it." So, your position is that in HoCo's public school system, with black principals, black teachers, black administrators, is educating black males differently? Again, BS. This "report" is a sham. I like this one too, "Therefore, the Task Force recommends that African-American males with significant academic or behavioral problems (those most at-risk for failing or dropping out) be assigned such a person from the school or from the community—someone with the time and training to be an effective mediator/counselor and the inclination to stop the hemorrhaging of Black males from our public schools." Or the parents could just be parents, and then the kid would have an advocate. Further evidence that these parents want the school to raise their kids for them, b/c they are either unwilling or unable to do so themselves. "African-American men constitute just 8.5 percent of Maryland’s college population. And only one-third of those enrolled will ever graduate. Admittedly, financial need is just one reason for these dismal numbers—but an important one nonetheless." So what about the million minority scholarships out there? I can't even read any more of this nonsense. Relying on a report like this to prove your point shows your true colors. This report goes out of its way to highlight all potential reasons why black males are being left behind, except for the true reasons; generations of bad parents, and an ability to never look inward, as everything bad that happens must be someone elses fault.

Posted 9:59 AM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user howcow says...

user forthestudents says... "Most kid's issues at school can usually be traced back to teachers." Teachers in Howard County High Schools spend 50 minutes a day with 20+ students in each room. How can the teachers be responsible for the behavior issues a student displays. A teacher's role is to protect the learning experience. Certainly the teacher writes the referral, but they have no control over what consequences are given. Are you implying that its faulty teachers that cause students to misbehave. Its no wonder students don't show any respect for their instructors when people in the community and their own parents undermine the importance of respecting teachers as human beings, not just drones to be ignored and cursed at. For the most part, barring some obvious problems, teachers at RHS are working their butts off to foster LEARNING. Isn't that what this is all about, LEARNING? Being suspended is a lesson to be learned, just like everything else that teachers are trying to teach." Way NOT to get my point, which was, most issues with a kid can be handled at the teacher level and this is done by frequent communication between parent and teacher. Lots of these blowups result by escalating behavior that if nipped early on, can keep things calmer. I'm sure most of the trouble kids, be them poor minority or rich majority, have a bad home situation where the parent/guardian just doesn't care. That doesn't mean the rest of the kids have to suffer though, does it? I agree teachers are there to teach and not be peacekeepers, and that must be why they support Dr. Kaufman's willingness to discipline the ones that don't stay in line. Wow, imagine that...actual consequences for our actions! OK Gina, or whever, fire away with your stats. I would like the following please: # of suspensions per year, per school # of expulsions per year, per school reason for suspensions average length per suspension of all kids suspended in a given year, how many with previous discipline issues and finally, most importantly: percentage of kids suspended who own, or have previously owned, Lego sets. This is important.

Posted 12:00 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

The sad part is that we feel the need to have separate parent groups, the PTSA should be the group that ALL parents choose to join, GAAP and other groups only set a poor example for students. If the parents divide up along racial lines, of course the students will do the same. BY THE WAY SETTHERECORDSTRAIGHT, the PTA has been looking at data on suspensions for 3 years since to group that Reybold is leading (and either unknowing or even purposely is embarrassing the entire RHS community) brought this issue to the PTA's attention. The suspension data has been discussed numerous times at PTA meetings with data freely being shared. All you need to do is attend a meeting and get involved. Several times HCPPS had sent high ranking officials to RHS PTA meetings to discuss this issue. This is one of the reasons for the turn around in the numbers.

Posted 12:01 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user hocomudgeon says...

My heart bleeds for these poor, culturally misunderstood children. How dare such brutish, insensitive school administartors actually attempt to hold the little darlings to account for their behavior. Dr. Cousins' "Cultural Proficiency" program obviously doesn't go far enough. I think a summer of Re-education Camp in Berkeley is the way to go.

Posted 12:06 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

SETTHERECORDSTRAIGHT, In reading your posts I continue to chuckle to myself! You are oblivious to what is happening at PTA meetings.

Posted 12:15 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user comeonnow says...

We as a whole should be grateful that our Principal is not afraid to do what's right, which is...NOT tolerate fights, foul,inappropriate language towards staff, students, etc. Get real people! There are other schools in HC that are more concerned with their "status" and appearing to have NO problems, so they punish very infrequently. This keeps their "stats" looking good. Don't reprimand the school for putting an end to an issue we didn't create; we just refuse to tolerate. Do your jobs as parents and Parent YOUR child. Let them know that white, black, pink or purple skin doesn't mean a thing. Your child is to be a representation of your family when he/she leaves the house. Do you want your family represented as out-of-control?! Remember every parent reading this..... Parenting starts in the home!

Posted 12:42 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user comeonnow says...

We as a whole should be grateful that our Principal is not afraid to do what's right, which is...NOT tolerate fights, foul,inappropriate language towards staff, students, etc. Get real people! There are other schools in HC that are more concerned with their "status" and appearing to have NO problems, so they punish very infrequently. This keeps their "stats" looking good. Don't reprimand the school for putting an end to an issue we didn't create; we just refuse to tolerate. Do your jobs as parents and Parent YOUR child. Let them know that white, black, pink or purple skin doesn't mean a thing. Your child is to be a representation of your family when he/she leaves the house. Do you want your family represented as out-of-control?! Remember every parent reading this..... Parenting starts in the home!

Posted 12:47 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user reservoirparent says...

The facts regarding the parent initiative to reduce teacher turnover at Reservoir High School: 1) Reservoir High School has had the highest teacher turnover in the county consistently since the school opened in 2002. 2) Two groups were asked to address it - the PTSA on 10/02/08 and the School Improvement Team on 10/06/08. Both declined. 3) Parents raised the issue at the Dessert with the Principal on 11/12/08. It was determined that it was best to get the Dept of Education involved. 4) A parent and Dr. Kaufman met with the Dept of Education on 12/04/2008 to reveal and get help on the issue. The Dept of Education committed to help RHS obtain more experienced teachers when filling vacancies. At the same meeting the parent asked the Dept of Education to present their plan at a PTSA meeting which they did on 1/08/09. 5) The Dept of Education issued a survey to identify possible causes of the turnover. 6) The result: teacher turnover for the 08-09 school year was reduced for the first time through Dr. Kaufman’s efforts and the support of the Dept of Education. The consequences of the excessive turnover won’t be mitigated for some time as we have only 38% of our teachers with a minimum of 5 years of experience versus the other high schools with an average of 61%. Through the collaboration of parents, the Principal, and the Dept of Education teacher turnover has declined. Hopefully, our wonderful teachers will stay at Reservoir and our students will be the beneficiaries.

Posted 7:32 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user involvedparent says...

What a sad commentary so many of the comments are. Become involved - involved in your children's lives, involved in their school and other activities. How unfair so many of the comments are because parents became involved and brought to light a problem. What did they do wrong? Nothing. They took their own time and energy to investigate and offer facts - not the emotional personal ramblings most of the comments posted offer. So many snide criticisms and down right ugly comments. Their concerns brought to light a problem and now work is happening to rectify it. And by the way, the PTSA is all volunteer and many of the committees that do things like breakfasts and lunches do it to show appreciation to the teachers who work hard at a job that is certainly not a high paying one. It is something parents do on their own time to say thank you for a job well done and this include the non-teaching staff as well who all work to keep the school running. There are many positives at RHS but there are also problems and the only way to help correct the problems is to identify them then work to resolve them and making biased, ugly,unfounded, snide comments brings nothing positive to the table.

Posted 11:38 PM, 03.12.10 | Permalink

user curmudgeon says...

This quote from moonbattery.com says it best: "You see, the biggest problem faced by minority youths isn't fatherlessness, a culture that stigmatizes achievement and celebrates victimhood, or schools run like fiefdoms for teachers unions... it's that they are expected to behave as well as white students." This is the real issue that needs to be solved.

Posted 10:08 AM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

Thank you curmudgeon for the reference to moonbattery.com, I love it. "...the biggest problem faced by minority youths...that they are expected to behave as well as white students." This sums it up real well. Thank you involvedparent's comment asking what these parents did wrong "They took their own time and energy to investigate and offer facts...Their concerns brought to light a problem and now work is happening to rectify it." People have used this article to specify their own opinions about parents groups existance, personal opinions about people, etc., but what is true from this article is 1) these parents had to go to multiple sources and perform research just like doing a thesis and invoke the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to get some of the information to show the discrepancies with the suspension numbers -- why does it have to be that hard? 2) there is no oversight of the numbers reported from each of the school at the Maryland legislative level 3) school administrators should be held accountable to the community they serve and a group of parents revealing the truth is not a valid reason for stoning them to death. If there were other malicious intent behind the article, it did not come out in the article itself. It is from prior-knowledge and opinions of people and that is what has clouded this article. Reread the article again without the bias and hopefully the three points listed above will become clear to everyone.

Posted 2:12 PM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user truthteller says...

I applaud Addie Kaufman and I wish that more Principals had the courage to deal fairly with the discipline of students despite their race. Too many administrators in Howard County yield to the prospects of keeping their statistics of discipline low by creating "interventions" that do not change the behavior of the child; yet they give the public impression that effective measures have been taken. By not having effective consequences for bad behavior, enabled children continue these bad habits that follow them into adulthood - oftentimes breaking our laws. Rather than criticize Ms. Kaufman for trying to do her job, the parents of suspended children should be thanking her. Parents, if you don't want Howard County to become a place where it is acceptable for officials to turn their head when a crime is committed, support those who try to enforce the laws of society. Criminals are not born that way, they are raised that way.

Posted 2:17 PM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

One thing for comeonnow, you said "We as a whole should be grateful that our Principal is not afraid to do what's right...", do you realize that the administration at RHS (particularly Mr. Strothers and Mr. Anderson) is violating the Student Rights an Responsibilities policy by interviewing your child(ren) about a school prank and not advising you that they have done so, as the policy states? Is that right?...probably in the administration's mind yes. Worse yet, the students at the school believe the administration has the right to treat them that way, so majority of them do not tell their parents! Several girls have been interviewed with three males in the office: Mr. Strothers, Mr. Anderson and the school police officer -- do you think they were uncomfortable and felt intimidated? Do you think Dr. Kaufmann does not know about this -- I can tell you she does because one of the parents contacted her about it -- and the harassment continued with other students. Where does it stop? The administration cannot have unlimited authority without checks and balances....who will ensure they are following the policies and procedures of Howard County, the state of Maryland and the Federal Government? There is a simple request on the table to Delegate Guy Guzzone and other Maryland legislators, provide oversight and accountability outside of the county for the protection of student rights and parent rights.

Posted 2:30 PM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user shocked says...

The article does not challenge suspension as a form of discipline. It is not suggesting that bad behavior should not have consequences. It is challenging the lack of oversight to ensure that this method of discipline is used fairly and reasonably for all students.

Posted 2:30 PM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user settherecordstraight says...

Truthteller, would you agree that the definition of disrespect is subjective? I do not think anyone is arguing or challenging Dr. Kaufmann about proper discipline for a clear infraction of school and county policy such as fighting, drugs, weapons...but what is "bad behavior"? Let's take away the subjectiveness (or at least monitor the subjective areas) for things that cause the students to be suspended and have them come to Saturday school, stay after or something else that does not affect their academics in the classroom. Lost time in a classroom does not always get recaptured....and the student and society may suffer as a result.

Posted 2:39 PM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user says...

I wonder if anyone has computed the amount of increased spending that bad behavior has caused the school system. The interventions of Saturday School, Home Schooling, Alternative Education Program, Homewood School, School Psychologists, Police Officers in School, Developmental Assets, etc. are not free. They are increasingly becoming a part of almost of every school - quite a change from how bad behavior was dealt with years ago when parents actually took a role in the discipline of their child. Over 70% of our Howard County taxes go toward the cost of the school system, this can only increase if we continue to take on the job of parenting the child. How many more programs can we include, and at what further cost? The lost time in the classroom ceases for the student when they learn the lesson to show respect for their teachers. We will continue to lose the ability to hire effective and strong instructors unless we continue to support them. One of the most important ways to support someone (especially a teacher) is through respect. Demonstrate that you value teachers and the job they do by demanding their respect from their students, parents, and community.

Posted 3:13 PM, 03.13.10 | Permalink

user howcow says...

user settherecordstraight says... ...Lost time in a classroom does not always get recaptured....and the student and society may suffer as a result. give me a break---only kids that are committing serious offensives will have to do serious suspension 'time', so they deserve this predicament. Short and infrequent suspensions are as disruptive as missing school due to sickness. "Several girls have been interviewed with three males in the office: Mr. Strothers, Mr. Anderson and the school police officer -- do you think they were uncomfortable and felt intimidated?" True...so I think we should hire 10 assist. principals, 5 male and 5 female, and that way we can ensure the administrator/interviews are the same sex...that will help....nonsense. "administration at RHS (particularly Mr. Strothers and Mr. Anderson) is violating the Student Rights an Responsibilities policy by interviewing your child(ren) about a school prank and not advising you that they have done so, as the policy states?" True, they should tell parents up front before interviewing so that the parents can coach their kids what to say/not say so their kid can avoid the discipline they deserve. Crazy! If parents were actually communicating with their kids, they would know 99% of the time if their kid was even in a situation like this (where they might be interviewed because they witnessed/participated in some bad activity) and could thus anticipate an interview.

Posted 9:11 AM, 03.15.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

curmudgeon: "it's that they are expected to behave as well as white students." You mean that black students are expected to remain quiet during class, not fight people in the hallways, be respectful of school staff, do their work, and actually graduate without incident? How dare the HoCo school system hold black students to such a high standard. settherecordstraight: "but what is 'bad behavior'?" It is whatever your "student" did to get suspended. There is absolutely no way to codify every situation of "bad behavior" so that everything is objective; however, you could make a significant impact on the situtation if you stop teaching your kids that everything is someone else's fault. I am willing to bet that these jokers have had issues throughout their academic careers, and each time, the parents tell them that it is just biased school personnel. Too bad that the common denominator in each of your problems is YOU. Howcow: I 100% agree with you.

Posted 10:30 AM, 03.15.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

settherecordstraight, Are you really saying teachers and administrations should only suspend students if they are doing things that are specifically on a "list"? Laughing and talking may not be on the list, but what if it is constant to the point where all the other kids in the class can't learn? At some point teachers and administrators need to use their training and experience to do what is best for the entire class, not one disruptive student. Not sure what you do for a living, but I don't want high educated and trained administrators and teachers educating our kids under your guidelines.

Posted 11:24 AM, 03.15.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

rhsstudentadvocate: Your logic is wasted on these people. In life, there are either victors or victims. It appears that these whiners have chosen to be victims, and nothing that we say will change that. Regardless of what life throws at them, it will always be someone else's fault, as they are victims in their own minds.

Posted 11:59 AM, 03.15.10 | Permalink

user lef004 says...

As a former student at this school, this is the most ridiculous thing ever. The teachers at this school are amazing and inspired me to become a teacher myself. Any student complains about the adminstration at any school. I am currently at a high school in Carroll County and the students complain about the administration there too--it's the universal theme in the world of teenagers. Has anyone watched Ferris Beuller's day off? Or basically any other teen movie known to man? From personal experience at attending Reservoir, you do not get in trouble with teachers or adminstrators unless you are disrupting the learning environment that is valued above anything else at RHS. Every teacher and adminstrator at the school has gone through years of hard work and training and knows what they are doing. I know they have because I am going through the same process teachers and adminstrators before me have been doing for decades. Yes, these parents should be involved in the school community but they are not appart of the disciplinary process at RHS. Are they sitting in the office everyday reading reports from teachers and dealing with students? Are they up in front of the classroom everyday, trying to convey content knowledge to kids who sometimes just don't want to be there? No, they are not. How about they just stick to the PTSA or the Boosters club or even POPS because although parent involvement is fabulous and every teacher's dream, this is a little over the top.

Posted 2:34 PM, 03.15.10 | Permalink

user lef004 says...

As a former student at this school, this is the most ridiculous thing ever. The teachers at this school are amazing and inspired me to become a teacher myself. Any student complains about the adminstration at any school. I am currently at a high school in Carroll County and the students complain about the administration there too--it's the universal theme in the world of teenagers. Has anyone watched Ferris Beuller's day off? Or basically any other teen movie known to man? From personal experience at attending Reservoir, you do not get in trouble with teachers or adminstrators unless you are disrupting the learning environment that is valued above anything else at RHS. Every teacher and adminstrator at the school has gone through years of hard work and training and knows what they are doing. I know they have because I am going through the same process teachers and adminstrators before me have been doing for decades. Yes, these parents should be involved in the school community but they are not appart of the disciplinary process at RHS. Are they sitting in the office everyday reading reports from teachers and dealing with students? Are they up in front of the classroom everyday, trying to convey content knowledge to kids who sometimes just don't want to be there? No, they are not. How about they just stick to the PTSA or the Boosters club or even POPS because although parent involvement is fabulous and every teacher's dream, this is a little over the top.

Posted 2:39 PM, 03.15.10 | Permalink

user says...

Dr. Kaufman and county administrators claim that suspensions are necessary to maintain safety and security. How are cutting class, not identifying onesself, and not turning over electronic devices a safety issue? Those behaviors certainly require disciplinary action..but suspension? The number 1 reason for suspensions in the 07-08 school year was attendance which is now outlawed. How can a student not in the school pose a safety risk?

Posted 8:43 PM, 03.16.10 | Permalink

user concernedparent says...

How can the County Administrators and the Board of Education not act on this principal? Why are consequences for bad judgment only given to the students?

Posted 8:50 PM, 03.16.10 | Permalink

user rhsboyy says...

I WAS FIGHT NUMBER 47 LLS Y DIG

Posted 7:46 AM, 03.17.10 | Permalink

user rhsboyy says...

YA DIGG*

Posted 7:46 AM, 03.17.10 | Permalink

user howcow says...

User: "Dr. Kaufman and county administrators claim that suspensions are necessary to maintain safety and security. How are cutting class, not identifying onesself, and not turning over electronic devices a safety issue? Those behaviors certainly require disciplinary action..but suspension? The number 1 reason for suspensions in the 07-08 school year was attendance which is now outlawed. How can a student not in the school pose a safety risk?" This makes no sense at all. The kid is cutting class. He/she doesn't want to be in school. A suspension is a disciplinary measure that says "you are not to come to school for X days". This should make the kid OVERJOYED!! What are you complaining for?

Posted 10:21 AM, 03.17.10 | Permalink

user givemeabreak says...

"How are cutting class, not identifying onesself, and not turning over electronic devices a safety issue?" Cutting class should be punished by suspending the student because: 1) the school staff is responsible for that kid during school hours, and we he/she leaves the school grounds and gets hurt or in trouble, the school gets sued for not keeping proper watch over the kid; 2) the purpose of school is to learn. If a kid chooses to skip class, he/she is obviously not learning, and as #1 illustrates, the kid is still a ward of the school from open to close. At least when you suspend these kids, they are their parent's responsibility, so if they want to get into trouble during school hours, the parents are the only one to blame. Not idenfiying yourself is a safety issue because again, the school staff is responsible for the safety of the students, and if people are in that building that don't belong there, the school must find them and make them leave. How many times have we heard about an ex-student returning to a school after dropping out/graduating, and getting into a fight with a current student? It happened a couple of times while I attended OMHS. So when a kid refuses to ID him/herself, it is definately a safety issue. You have to give the cops your ID when you are pulled over, why is it such a big deal for a kid to say his/her name unless they've done something wrong. Not turning over property of the school, such as an electronic device is a safety issue, because kids will always push it when given the chance. Therefore, if kids know that they can keep school property without recourse, what happens next is outright theft of school property or property of other students, which leads to fights, arrests, and distrust of authority. I know that it is hard for you, but think before you speak, thanks! If anyone wanted proof of the types of "students" are getting suspended, please take a look at rhsboyy's post above. As you can tell, he is from fine genetic stock, and is certainly headed straight for the top. concernedparent: I am concerned too, concerned about the parenting skills of a large segment of our population. "Why are consequences for bad judgment only given to the students?" Because the students need to learn that when they act up, there is a price to pay. How is this not a good lesson? Maybe if you spent less time blaming everyone else for your kid's lack of focus, poor work ethic, and bad behavior, you would have more time to be a decent parent and your "student" wouldn't be a hood who keeps getting suspended.

Posted 10:24 AM, 03.17.10 | Permalink

user rhsstudentadvocate says...

user concernedparent says... How can the County Administrators and the Board of Education not act on this principal? Why are consequences for bad judgment only given to the students? What are you talking about? You must be one of the 3 parents that want Dr. Kaufman fired for your petty personal reasons. Get a life!!

Posted 11:39 AM, 03.17.10 | Permalink

user uppercorner says...

If the suspension rate is decreasing at RHS in the last couple of years, then I would hope that this in part, has to do with that the students are getting the message that behavior counts. Behave, act responsibly, act respectful and you wont be suspended. There are those students (all colors and cultures)(and its normally a very small percentage who are the chronic offenders) that will always fail to comply with the rules and for those students, sometimes suspension is the only option. They make the choice to misbehave and it is the responsibility of the staff and administration to provide a safe and nurturing environment for the majority of other students who comply with the school rules. I applaud RHS for tackling the high suspension rate, looking at strategies and interventions to keep students in schools, but still suspending when it is the warranted disciplinary action.

Posted 2:23 PM, 03.17.10 | Permalink

user gatormom says...

Please don't blame the PTSA for not promoting any one paricular complaint or issue. It's a volunteer organization, the meetings are open and pretty much anyone can successfully step up into a leadership position. I admire your persistence in pushing the data out there, but I don't think it's fair to blame the PTSA for not adding this issue to its agenda. PTSAs are the same at every school whether your child is in kindergarten or a senior. Every issue or project the group takes on, from teacher lunches to working on the suspension issue, has to have a parent volunteer willing to do the work and head the committee. In my experience, PTSAs are willing to take on virtually any task you ask them to do -- if you are willing to step up and do the work. If there's no one willing to take on the task, the issue gets dropped. It's unreasonable to expect someone else to champion your cause.

Posted 10:41 AM, 03.18.10 | Permalink

user mdcommish says...

Can anyone shed light on the specifics of an incident where a student was suspended for failing to show ID when asked? thanks

Posted 10:18 PM, 03.18.10 | Permalink