2009-2010 End-Of-Year Internal Communications Report

GOAL: Eighty percent of employees, parents and community members will agree CMS provides timely, accurate and responsive service on annual satisfaction surveys and polls.
1. Comprehensive service improvement program (SP VI 3). We will develop a comprehensive approach to service improvement, including management modeling, incentive programs, organizational structures, service processes, employee recognition/reward systems, employee training, and internal/external communication plans that are all focused on better serving CMS publics. a. Improve Internal Communication areas (DirectLine, Intranet) I have worked with IT to remove unnecessary QuickLinks on the Intranet and will continue to do so by streamlining links. I also began working with IT on the plan for retooling the Intranet, including the design and content areas. I streamlined the Principals Toolkits to include all information, instead of having some under QuickLinks and other information scattered in other places. Complete courses on Electronic communications a. Communicating in the Virtual Workplace b. News University Courses i. Anatomy of a Multimedia News Organization ii. Five Steps to Multimedia Storytelling iii. Social Networks: Engaging Users With News: A KDMC Webinar with Poynter/NewsU b. Key Communicator Program We had five meetings. They included trainings on writing good news submissions, newsworthiness and taking good photos. The average attendance over the five meetings was 65 people.

I also worked with Human Resources to secure gifts and food for meetings. (APPENDIX A)
2. Strengthen employee communications (SP VI 7). We will ensure that CMS employees are informed about CMS news and information on a timely basis by developing a comprehensive internal communications program. It will use a variety of tools and methods, including ConnectEd, email, CMS Intranet, CMS-TV3, DirectLine electronic newsletter,

meetings, special events and other communication channels. We will also strengthen the Superintendents Teacher and Principal Advisory groups, and add advisory groups for other internal constituencies such as support staff as needed. Quarterly brown-bag lunches with the superintendent and other executive staff members will provide an informal forum for employees to ask questions and offer feedback. a. Launch pilot social media effort for staff i. Complete courses in social media marketing/networking 1. Integrating Social Media in Marketing Campaigns Social Media Schools 2. Build and Engage Local Audiences Online (News U) 3. Twitter for Journalists (News U) b. Help to lead external efforts concerning social media. i. Work with IT to determine who would be contact on Facebook efforts. ii. Set up criteria and plan of action for social media postings and site developments. (APPENDIX B) After completing my class on social media, I researched how other school districts were represented on two social media sites: Twitter and Facebook. I then looked at how those districts controlling their brand used social media and how CMS was currently represented on Facebook and Twitter. Once I gathered this information. I worked on the committee to develop the CMS Facebook page. We monitor the page regularly to learn where new subscribers are coming from, and how they are interacting with CMS. We have gone from having no Facebook page to a page with more than 2,400 fans. We have posted dozens of links to news stories and other timely content. c. Improve employee understanding of budget changes This effort is ongoing. We closed out the 2009-2010 budget communications and I have begun the budget communications for 2010-2011. i. Continue budget e-mails, newsletters as needed Distributed 16 budget bulletins and 22 budget-related emails (APPENDIX C) Answered more than 500 internal budget e-mails (APPENDIX D) ii. Update Key Communicators on budget changes

iii. Attend any meetings necessary to inform staff of budget changes STAC, NCATA and Key Communicators d. Continue to put out at least 50 issues of DL per fiscal year 51 (APPENDIX E) iv. Standardize criteria for submission to better explain what will not be included/covered v. Promote submission criteria for DL so staff understands how to submit news items I promote the submission criteria in every issue of DirectLine I have updated DL so that those using Outlook are able to click directly on links to sections instead of scrolling all the way through. vi. Communicate district events/ news items to staff - 131 vii. Promote internal/external professional development opportunities to staff (Awards/PD) - 154 1. Work with professional development to promote monthly opportunities 97 2. Work with HR to promote higher-education opportunities suspended given change to reimbursement program, possible pay change. 3. Communicate at least 150 community news items to staff streamlined to only include acceptable content viii. Promote at least 150 employee discounts to staff - 72 ix. Work with HR to strengthen promotion of discounts x. Work with HR to increase numbers/types of discounts 109 xi. Increase Benefits communication - 24 xii. Increase the number of educator/summer opportunities to staff 16 xiii. Increase all-staff communications promoting CMS TV programs to 65 suspended midyear xiv. Increase employee feature stories on Intranet/DirectLine - 101 xv. Increase the number of award-winning staff recognized on Intranet/DirectLine - 311

d. Improve internal toolkits. Create new toolkits as needed H1N1 tooklit developed. It will be incorporated into Principals Toolkit. For Principals Toolkits, the back-to-school items were amended and streamlined after polling principals to assess needs. Also, all parent letters were updated and more Connect-ED messages were added. 3. Internal pride campaign (SP VI 8). We will develop a district-wide program to acknowledge and reward accomplishments and to encourage teaming on initiatives. It will highlight CMS employees who go above and beyond in serving students, CMS and our community. It will also showcase outstanding teachers and principals. (APPENDIX F) a. Through Intranet and Internal communications, increase external awards i. Increase the number of awards promoted to staff - 57 b. Working within Human Resources and following the SOP for Employee Excellence Award promotion and recognition: I developed a sponsor packet now used by HR to recruit sponsors. I also work with CMS TV to get copies of EE surprises on DVDs for sponsors. I updated the nomination form to include current due dates and contact information. i. Increase nominations to 200/winners to 20 206/20 ii. Increase award given to $150/per winner Each winner received almost $300 in prizes iii. Increase amount of items given from at least one to three At lease five items were given iv. Standardize e-mail to nominate staff and procedure to send out All nominators are e-mailed to note receipt of form. Each nominee who does not win receives a certificate through courier.

Other projects: Assisting departments as needed with communications o Just-A-Minute Deli o Seven-Digit Dialing (APPENDIX G) Developed communication plan for dialing change o HR (Transfer Fair) Developed communication plan and materials for transfer fair that was subsequently cancelled. (APPENDIX H) o Teacher of the Year, Teacher Assistant of the Year and First-Year Outstanding Teacher of the Year data collection Collected both nominations and packets for these awards. I worked with the respective organizations responsible for them on

continuing promotion of the awards to principals as well as participating in interviews, as needed.

Key Communicator 2009-2010 Meeting Dates

Oct. 1, 2009, 3:30 pm -- 5:00 pm at Ed Center board room November 19, 2009, 3:30 pm -- 4:45 pm at Ed Center board room January 14, 2010, 3:30 pm 4:45 pm at Ed Center board room March 11, 2010, 3:30 pm -- 5:00 pm at Ed Center board room May 13, 2010, 3:30 pm -- 5:00 pm at Ed Center board room

Job Descriptions Key Communicator and Key Communicator Account Representatives

Key Communicators Key Communicators are an important communication vehicle with an organization because research shows the best most trusted communication is delivered person-toperson. They help connect an organization with its key internal and external stakeholders. Job Description: Regularly share news and information about your school or department Report any concerns shared by your school or department Share news provided by Key Communicator account representatives with your school or department Attend all Key Communicator meetings

Key Communicator Representatives Key Communicator representatives have been assigned schools, primarily grouped by learning communities Job Description: Regularly (at least once every two weeks) contact Key Communicators to receive their updates and to provide CMS updates. Generate account summary reports to track communication with Key Communicators. Provide news received by Key Communicators to other departments as needed. Attend all Key Communicator meetings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Key Communicators

The Key Communicator Program is a two-way communication vehicle. First, it is designed to help tell the good news and the unique stories that are occurring within our district. This also is an important way to be proactive and to assure that positive stories about the district are shared. Each school or department will be asked to select an individual who will be responsible for sharing information with Public Information about news employees, parents, the community and media need to know. Key Communicators are the key to good information. Key Communicators also work with Communications to disseminate information about district initiatives and events, such as student assignment, the budget and bond campaigns. They are able to ask questions they hear from various departments and schools and bring that information back to their colleagues. Q: What does a Key Communicator do? A: Because the Communications staff cant be everywhere all the time, key communicators

serve as the eyes and ears for our schools and departments. As a Key Communicator, you are responsible for sharing good news with Communications. By sending information through Share Your News, you can channel information to be shared with the local media, in our electronic newsletters, on CMS TV and the CMS Intranet and Web site. You are also a liaison who can help quell rumors and spread correct information about district initiatives and events. For example, Key Communicators learn about budget and student assignment plans. They can take this information and share it with their staff, students, parents and other community members so they wont be misinformed.

school or individuals within the school, interesting teaching strategies or best methods that are being used within the school, programs or initiatives that are helping the school meet their goals, student success stories, parental involvement stories, school celebrations, festivals, etc. Also, if a school has a unique activity planned for a recognition (such as Flag Day), then that information can also be submitted. Department representatives should send information related to awards or honors received by the department or individuals within the department, programs or initiatives being developed by the department, changes in programs, and tips for parents on curriculum issues. Keep in mind, some key aspects of news are: Unique Visual Timely Interesting

Q: What kinds of information should I send to Communications? A: School representatives should send information on awards and honors received by the

internal communication. Additionally, information provided by Key Communicators may also be used by CMS TV, incorporated into the CMS Web site, and shared with local media. Our e-mail newsletter to the community, District Review, may be another channel to include your information.

Q: How will this information be used? A: Information submitted by Key Communicators may be used to inform employees through

during the year to learn more about all the great news at your school. Your news tips will also be shared through a media tip sheet of activities and events that is distributed to reporters weekly. If you have any good news and want to share already, you can submit your story ideas on the Intranet and click on the share a news story link on the left under Quick Links. Copy that list of questions, fill it out and send it to keyinfo@cms.k12.nc.us. If you need assistance about sharing a story idea, feel free to contact Communications staff.

Q: How does the Communications staff support key communicators? A: Representatives from the Communications Department will be available to visit your school

Tips for Writing a Press Release

When it comes to your school's media coverage, having no news is bad news. If no news is coming out of your school, the only media coverage you will see could be what gets published when something goes wrong. The remedy is simple: you need to spend time getting the word out about the good things going on in your schools. Here are some tips to think about when writing a press release or sharing news.

Most Common Press Release Mistakes in Order of Importance: Subject that is Not Interesting or Newsworthy
o You must write your press release about something that people are interested in. If you think your event is interesting, dont assume others will do the same. If you dont communicate WHY its unique or interesting, no one may know and no one may cover it. It takes experience and skill to look at an organization and find topics for a press release that are interesting. You know your schools, so you can find those topics. Stay vigilante with staff about events, groups or individuals that may be worth writing about. A lot of the best topics for a press release are things that no one has ever thought about. If your school always celebrates a certain day because of the school or areas history, (for instance, Queen Charlottes birthday, May 19) communicate that. It can be a news angle that gets the media out. The goal of a press release is to get the media interested and then respond to ask questions. A long press release is overwhelming and usually ignored. Press releases need to be about only one topic. The opening paragraph of a press release in particular must focus on one subject.

Too Much Information/Not Focused

o o o o

Here are some things to focus on when submitting news or writing a press release: Remember what news is. Be sure the story items you share with the media will interest at least half of the reading and listening public. Start the story with the most important idea. By doing that, you will lure readers into the article. Keep the story brief. One typed, double-spaced page is enough because a short news story stands a greater chance of being used than a longer one. Choose the right time to release the news. Timing is important. Know who the members of the media are and be nice to them.

October
Recognitions: National Breast Cancer Awareness: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among American women. During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, people renew their commitment to fighting this disease, raising awareness and supporting those affected by breast cancer. National Child Health Day: National Child Health Day, the first Monday in October, is an occasion for all of us to focus on the health and development of our nation's children. America's Safe Schools Week The National School Safety Center, state governors and state school superintendents sponsor America's Safe Schools Week. This observance is also actively supported by local, state and national public officials and professional organizations. http://www.schoolsafety.us/Safe-Schools-Week-p-24.html Drive Safely Work Week: The National Drive Safely Work Week (DSWW) is an annual week devoted to improving the safety and health of the nation's workforce by promoting safe driving practices at their place of business. The campaign week is always the first full week in October. Fire Prevention Week Fire safety advocates will spread the word to their communities that, with a little extra caution, preventing the leading causes of home fires cooking, heating, electrical and smoking-materials is within their power. National Health Education Week: The National Center for Health Education (NCHE) is the officially-designated coordinating sponsor of National Health Education Week, an annual event that is celebrated throughout the nation during the third week of October. Since 1995, NCHE has identified an annual theme for National Health Education Week in order to focus national attention and raise awareness of pressing health issues of interest to the public. In collaboration with a co-sponsor, the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) and its 21 nationwide

chapters, together NCHE and SOPHE provide organizational support to schools and community groups, professionals, and the media throughout the nation to undertake activities for National Health Education Week at the state and local level. Celebrate the Bilingual Child Health Literacy Month: Health Literacy Month, celebrated each October, is a time when health literacy advocates around the world promote the importance of understandable health information. Started by Helen Osborne in 1999, this month is a time for all health literacy advocates to let the world know why health literacy matters. Diversity Awareness Month: This month is about opening dialogues that foster an appreciation of the differences that separate us as well as the similarities that unite us. National Crime Prevention Month: The month-long celebration spotlights successful crime prevention efforts on the local, state, and national levels. National Communicate with Your Kids Month National Book Month: This annual event encourages readers of all ages to enjoy books. Photographer Appreciation Month: During photographer appreciation month, we recognize the development of the photographic process and the people who take the pictures that leave lasting impressions on our lives. National School Lunch Week: Created in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, this recognition is a celebratory week of events and activities promoting the benefits of the National School Lunch Program. National Character Counts Week: During National Character Counts Week, we underscore our dedication to promoting values for our young people and encourage all Americans to demonstrate good character. National Boss Day (16): National Boss Day is October 16 each year. When the holiday falls on a weekend, it is generally celebrated on the working day closest to October 16. National Boss Day offers employees an opportunity to recognize those in supervisory positions. Popular ways to say "thanks" include cards, a lunch in the boss's honor, flowers, or gift certificates.

November

Custodial Workers Day: Give your custodial worker a big thanks. World Teachers Day: World Teachers Day provides the opportunity to draw public attention to the important role of teachers in building a better future for all the worlds learners. National Diversity Day: National Diversity Day is a day to celebrate and embrace who we are, despite our differences, no matter what race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, nationality, or disability.

Recognitions: Native American Heritage Month: In 1990, President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 "National American Indian Heritage Month." Similar proclamations, under variants on the name have been issued each year since 1994. Child Safety and Protection Month: November is Child Safety and Protection Month. Learning to foresee accidents is the best way to prevent them. American Diabetes Month: 23.6 million children and adults in the United States are living with diabetes, and another 57 million people are at-risk. I Am So Thankful Month: November is "I Am So Thankful" month. Start acknowledging what you're actually thankful for. Learn Chinese Month National Inspirational Role Models Month: The National Inspirational Role Model Month was created to acknowledge the impact contemporary and historic role models have on our lives. Individuals chosen for recognition may include celebrities, historic figures, relatives, friends, colleagues, associations, etc. National Novel Writing Month: National Novel Writing Month is a fun, seat-of-your-pants approach to novel writing. Participants begin writing November 1. The goal is to write a 175-page (50,000-word) novel by midnight, November 30. Childrens Book Week: Children's Book Week is an annual event sponsored by The Children's Book Council to encourage young people to read. Lung Cancer Awareness week: The mission: to raise awareness of lung cancer with the general public and the media, encourage early diagnosis, and promote the support resources. National Family Literacy Day: 1

National Parents as Teachers Day: National Parents As Teachers Day is celebrated on November 8 to pay tribute to the more than 2,700 Parents as Teachers programs world wide that give all parents, regardless of social or economic circumstances, the support and guidance necessary to be their children's best first teachers in the critical early years. National Educational Support Professionals Day: Education Support Professionals (ESP) Day was first celebrated in 1987 after NEA's Representative Assembly called for the creation of a way to honor contributions of school support staff. National ESP Day is a time to strengthen support and respect for these colleagues. National ESP Day is observed on Wednesday during American Education Week. American Music Month U.S. Marine Corps Day (19): On Nov. 19 in 1868, the US Marine Corps adopted the emblem of a spread eagle perched on a foul anchor. On this day, let us salute those who have pledged their lives to the service of our nation. Veterans Day World Kindness Day: World Kindness Day is the day to look beyond ourselves, our race, religions, nationality, and boundaries of our country and realize that we are all people and citizens of the world. America Recycles Day America Recycles Day is Nov. 15 of every year. The average American disposes 7.5 pounds of waste everyday. This garbage is a solid waste stream which goes mostly to landfills, where it's compacted and buried. As the waste stream grows larger, the more pressure is put on our landfills, resources and environment. Recycling is one of the easiest ways to help slow down climate change and global warming. American Education Week: American Education Week is traditionally observed the week before Thanksgiving by 13 national organizations, including the National School Boards Association and National Education Association, Parent Teacher Association and the U.S. Dept of Education. It spotlights the importance of providing every child in America with a quality public education from kindergarten through college, and the need for everyone to do his or her part in making public schools great. Universal Childrens Day: The UN General Assembly recommended that all countries institute a Universal Children's Day, to be observed as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children. It recommended that the Day

December

was to be observed also as a day of activity devoted to promoting the ideals and objectives of the Charter and the welfare of the children of the world. Computer Security Day: Computer Security Day was started in 1988 to help raise awareness of computer related security issues. Our goal is to remind people to protect their computers and information. This annual event is held around the world on November 30th although some organizations choose to have functions on the next business day if it falls on a weekend. National Game & Puzzle Week: An annual event celebrated Sunday through Saturday of Thanksgiving Week, is held to increase appreciation of board games and puzzles. Not only is this week about games, but it is also about preserving the tradition of spending time with friends and family while playing board games, which is the most important thing of all.

Recognitions: National Hand Washing Awareness Month: Diseases are easily spread through contact with other people through out your day to day activities. Washing your hands with soap and water or an alcohol based solution can be a simple way to prevent the infectious germs from spreading. By adopting healthy habits like covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze and cleaning your hands you can avoid the germs this holiday that cause cold and flu. Learn a Foreign Language Month Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month: December is National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month (3D Month) by Presidential Proclamation. Though thousands of people die or are injured in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes each year in the United States, effective measures to prevent these deaths and injuries do exist. Human Rights Week: Started from a presidential proclamation issued since 1958 as a week to commemorate and celebrate the founding ideals of our nation. It is the time to emphasize the importance of protecting human liberty throughout the world. World AIDS Day (1): According to UNAIDS estimates, there are now 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. National Inclusive Schools Week: Inclusive Schools Week highlights and celebrates the progress of our nation's schools in providing a supportive and quality education to an increasingly diverse student population, including students with disabilities

January

and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The week also provides an important opportunity for educators, students, and parents to discuss what else needs to be done in order to ensure that their schools continue to improve their ability to successfully educate all children. Pearl Harbor Day: 7

Recognitions: Financial Wellness Month: January is Financial Wellness Month and that means that it is time to start thinking about your financial future, including your retirement. National School Board Month: This is your opportunity to build community awareness and understanding about the crucial role an elected board of trustees assumes in a representative democracy. National Card and Letter Writing Month: National Card and Letter Writing Month is the U.S. Postal Service's annual monthlong effort to promote literacy and celebrate the art of letter writing. National Hobby Month: Celebrate January as National Hobby Month every year with family and friends. Learn a new hobby or introduce one to others. National Eye Care Month National Mentoring Month: Participants in the National Mentoring Month include leading nonprofit organizations and numerous governors and mayors. In communities across the country, designated nonprofit and governmental agencies are responsible for coordinating local campaign activities, including media outreach and volunteer recruitment. National Handwriting Day: The purpose of National Handwriting Day is to alert the public to the importance of handwriting. According to WIMA, National Handwriting Day is a chance for all of us to re-explore the purity and power of handwriting. WIMA sponsors National Handwriting Day every January 23 in conjunction with John Hancocks birthday. Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence and is famous for his large, bold signature. Science Fiction Day: National Science Fiction Day Is Jan. 2, Isaac Asimovs Birthday. Asimov may have been a PhD chemist, professor, and a member of Mensa (R), but envisioning the future seemed to fire up his imagination more than science, teaching and interactions with geniuses.

February
Recognitions:

Amelia Earhart Day: Born July 24, 1897, in Atchison, Kansas, Amelia flew her first plane in 1921. Her name became a household word in 1932 when she was the 2nd person to fly solo across the Atlantic. In 1935, she was the first person to fly solo across the Pacific. Her next flight was planned to circle the globe at the equator. On July 2, 1937, she and her navigator disappeared at sea just 2 days short of finishing the trip. Fun at Work Day: Fun at Work Day is a day to have fun at work for once. Ideally, work should be fun. But normally, work is not intended to have fun. It's intended to get work done. Clean Off Your Desk Day: What does your desk look like right now? Everything neatly stored away in its proper place? Or piles of assorted paper everywhere? How about setting a New Year's resolution to get your office (home or work) in order? Think about all the problems that a MESSY desk causes you -- you are late paying bills, you can't find important papers when you need them, you look at the stacks and are filled with a sense of panic. Just taking a few minutes to CLEAN out the obsolete and set up some paper management SYSTEMS will carry you a long way toward a clean desk. Invest a few minutes creating a clean, efficient workspace for yourself. Popcorn Day: National Popcorn Day is celebrated at the end of January, although its exact date is a matter of debate. Various sources report it as January 19; others claim it takes place on whatever day the Super Bowl falls on. Customer Service Day: This is the day to reflect on the importance of providing good customer service and to explore new ways to keep the customer happy so that he chooses to do business with your company again and again. This is the time to remind your employees that "Customer is King," and that everything possible should be done to help out the customer or provide extra service to the customer. Customer Service Day is also the perfect time to thank your most hard-working customer service representative. National Thank Your Customers Week: During this week you can thank your customers for doing business with you. Consumers want to be noticed, valued, and appreciated by your business. A primary reason that customers stop doing business with a company is because they don't hear those words, or they're not communicated with sincerity. Chinese New Year Day:

Black History Month National Parent Leadership Month: Parents Anonymous sponsors the National Parent Leadership Month. The organization seeks to raise public awareness of strategic initiatives put in place to prevent child abuse and neglect, while promoting opportunities for building and supporting strong, safe families. Library Lovers Month: February is Library Lovers Month, an annual month-long celebration of libraries of all types. If you appreciate the value of a good book, take time this month to recognize the contributions of these fine institutions in our society. Youth Leadership Month: This is an annual event dedicated to celebrating those brave young people who take on leadership roles in their everyday lives. This is also the month to encourage and empower other young people to take on these same types of positions. National Childrens Dental Health Month: Each February, the American Dental Association sponsors National Childrens Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. http://www.ada.org/prof/events/featured/ncdhm.asp National Burn Awareness Week: Held the first full week of February each year, Burn Awareness Week is recognized by the National Health Information Center, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.shrinershq.org/Hospitals/Burn_Awareness/About/ Plant The Seeds Of Greatness Month: It is time to Plant the Seeds of Greatness in the month of February. If you are unhappy with how your life is going at the moment, this month has been set aside to sit-back and reflect on what you can do to improve your situation. National School Counseling Week: This years theme: "School Counselors: Making a Difference," will focus public attention on the unique contribution of professional school counselors within U.S. school systems. National School Counseling Week, sponsored by the American School Counselors Association, highlights the tremendous impact school counselors can have in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career. http://www.schoolcounselor.org/content.asp?contentid=271

March

Women's Heart Health Week: Heart disease is known to be the number one killer of women in America. In recognition of this occurrence, the first week of February has been designated as Women's Heart Health Week. The goal of this week is to raise awareness and focus on the prevention, education, and early intervention of the disease. Freedom Day (1): The purpose of this holiday is to promote good feelings, harmony, and equal opportunity among all citizens and to remember that the United States is a nation dedicated to the ideal of freedom. Major Richard Robert Wright Sr., a former slave, fought to have a day when freedom for all Americans is celebrated. When Wright got his freedom, he went on to become a successful businessman and community leader in Philadelphia. Major Wright chose February 1 as National Freedom Day because it was the day in 1865 that President Lincoln signed the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. http://www.americaslibrary.gov/cgi-bin/page.cgi/es/pa/free_1. National Girls & Women In Sports Day: National Girls & Women In Sports Day (NGWSD) is a special day for girls and women to celebrate their participation in sports and athletics. When Title IX was enacted in 1971, one in 27 girls in high school participated in athletics. One in three girls participates in athletics in high school now. There has been an explosion in the number of athletic opportunities open to women and girls of all ages and levels of ability. "Look Who's Playing" is the theme for the 2009 National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD). http://www.northnet.org/stlawrenceaauw/sportday.htm#ngwsd Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day: Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day known among the professional community as Girl Day was created in 2001 as a way to increase interest in engineering among girls and young women. In the U.S., only ten percent of all engineers are women. By planting the seeds of interest early, girls can maintain their math and science skills and be well prepared to enter engineering programs in college. http://www.eweek.org/site/News/Eweek/girlsdayinfo.shtml Pay a Compliment Day: Valentines Day: Presidents Day: Mardi Gras:

Recognitions:

April

National Nutrition Month: http://www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/index.html. Music in Our Schools Month National Social Work Month/ Week: National Social Work Month is a time to celebrate social workers and the services they provide to vulnerable communities. National Womens History Month National Sleep Awareness Week. Each NSAW begins with the Great American Sleep Challenge, which aims to help American's with their sleeping patterns and knowledge. The sleep awareness campaign happens to fall the same week as daylight savings time and strives to inform Americans about the risks associated with lack of sleep. Some risks include impacts on health, safety, productivity, mood and relationships. Youth Art Month: The Council for Art Education, Inc. (CFAE), a 501(c)(3) exempt organization, is the sponsor of Youth Art Month. Youth Art Month is an annual observance to emphasize the value of art education for all children and to encourage support for quality school art programs. Youth Art Month was created in 1961. National Write a Letter of Appreciation Week National School Breakfast Week: http://docs.schoolnutrition.org/meetingsandevents/nsbw2009/co ntent_tools.html. Print Shop In-Plant Awareness week Read Across America Day: Celebrated on or near Dr. Seuss birthday. International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: The date recalls the tragic loss of life at Sharpeville in South Africa in 1960, and is dedicated by the United Nations to the achievement of the goals of the Convention for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Pi Day (14):

Recognitions: Jazz Appreciation Month: It shines the spotlight on the extraordinary history of jazz and its importance in American culture. Through concerts, lectures, films, and other programs, JAM encourages people of all ages to attend concerts, listen to jazz on radio and recordings, read books about jazz, study the music, and support institutional jazz programs. Month of the Young Child: This is designed is designed to recognize the needs of young children and thank educators and

others involved in the education and care of young children. The Month of the Young Child is celebrated across the country by hundreds of local organizations working to improve opportunities for all young children. National Child Abuse Prevention Month: Over 3 million children are victims of violence and almost 1.8 million are abducted every year. 1 out of 7 is approached by a predator online. National Child Abuse Prevention Month is celebrated every April in order to make people aware of child abuse issues and their prevention. Stress Awareness Month: Health care professionals and health promotional experts are joining forces in an effort to increase public knowledge about the causes and cures for stress. National Poetry Month: National Poetry Month: National Poetry Month is a month-long, national celebration of poetry established by the Academy of American Poets. The concept is to widen the attention of individuals and the mediato the art of poetry, to living poets, to our complex poetic heritage, and to poetry books and journals of wide aesthetic range and concern. The academy hopes to increase the visibility and availability of poetry in popular culture while acknowledging and celebrating poetrys ability to sustain itself in the many places where it is practiced and appreciated. School Library/Media Month: School Library/Media Month: The School Library Media Month and National Library Week are wonderful opportunities to participate in the Campaign for America's Libraries and its School Library Campaign component. Administrative Professionals Week: Observed annually on the last full week of April, Administrative Professionals Week is an awareness event that acknowledges the contributions of all administrative professionals and their vital roles in business, education and government. Formerly known as Professional Secretaries Week, the commemorative event was created by the International Association of Administrative Professionals in 1952. National Autism Awareness Month: This was started to highlight the growing need for awareness about autism. The Autism Society of Americas local chapters work to educate the public about autism and issues within the autism community. National Volunteer Week: It began in 1974 when President Richard Nixon signed an executive order establishing the week as an annual celebration of volunteering. Since then, every U.S. President has signed a proclamation promoting National Volunteer Week.

Young People's Poetry Week: Its a chance (during the third week of April) to encourage everyone to celebrate poetry--read it, enjoy it, write it--in their homes, childcare centers, classrooms, libraries and bookstores. National Youth Service Day: Millions of youth participate in Global Youth Service Day, the largest service event in the world. They tutor young children, engage in disaster relief, register new voters, educate their communities about good nutrition, distribute HIV/AIDs prevention materials and meet many more community needs through their service. Global Youth Service Day supports youth on a life-long path of service and civic engagement, and educates the public, the media, and elected officials about the role of youth as community leaders. Worldwide Health Day: 7 National Teach Your Children to Save Day: The ABA Education Foundation established National Teach Children to Save Day to spotlight the importance of teaching our nation's youth about saving money. Every April bankers make presentations to students in grades K-12 about budgeting, saving, recognizing needs and wants and how interest makes money grow. National SAFE Kids Week: In 1987, Safe Kids, a global network of organizations whose mission is to prevent accidental childhood injury, and Johnson & Johnson, teamed up to launch the Safe Kids Worldwide Campaign. National Playground Safety Week: National Playground Safety Week is a time to focus on children's outdoor play environments. Its a time to pledge to use good judgment when playing. Its also a time for gratitude for all the adults who work tirelessly on maintaining our playgrounds. http://www.playgroundsafety.org/safetyweek/index.htm. National Drop Everything And Read Day: D.E.A.R. stands for Drop Everything and Read. National D.E.A.R. Day is a special reading celebration to remind and encourage families to make reading together on a daily basis a family priority. The National D.E.A.R. Day partners mark the birthday of beloved author Beverly Cleary as the official event date, April 12. Earth Day (22): Earth Day began on April 22, 1970 by the Environmental Teach-In and Senator Gaylord Nelson, a strong environmental activist. Largely supported and organized at the grassroots level, over 20 million Americans came out in response to and in support of the movement in peaceful protests favoring environmental reform. Many acts of legislation were passed in regards to the environment following Earth Day, such as the

May

Clean Air Act, laws protecting water and wild lands, as well as the creation of the EPA. Having been declared by Congress as a national day to celebrate the earth, the message of Earth Day has lived on since the 1970s and will continue to have a great impact in the wake of necessary improvements in environmental protection laws due to global warming, increasing pollution, etc.

Recognitions: Employee Appreciation Month: CMS celebrates this with various recognitions, including the EMMY Awards. Get Caught Reading Month: Get Caught Reading was started by the Association of American Publishers. The campaign centers on celebrities and public figures caught reading favorite books. Bicycle Safety Month: This month teaches safe biking practices for kids and adults, as well as promoting the use of bicycling as an environmentally friendly form of transportation. Whether its obeying traffic laws, finding the right helmet, or making sure your bike is safely locked up, this month is dedicated to educating the public with all sorts of tips and tricks to make biking a fun and safe experience. National Teen Self-Esteem Month: This month was started to battle against the negative self-image that teens often have. During this month, parents and teachers are encouraged to be positive role models for teens, promote diversity, and foster a positive body image. Family Wellness Month: Family Wellness Month strives for communities to stress healthy family lifestyles and habits as well. The healthier each individual family is overall, the healthier we can all be as a whole. Mental Health Month: this month focuses on recognizing mental illness and protection of mental health. By learning how to develop healthy habits it is possible to boost mental health. Healthy Vision Month Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month: Each year, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) declares May to be "National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month" because it's a peak season for asthma and allergy sufferers and a perfect time to educate people about these diseases. National Military Appreciation Month: This is the month set aside to honor and appreciate those who proudly defend America with their lives. Young Achievers Month

Child Nutrition Employee Appreciation Week (4-8) was created by the School Nutrition Association to highlight the hard work cafeteria employees do all year round. School food service staff contributes significantly to the health and well-being of children by providing nutritious meals. National Nurses Week: National School Nurses Day: This week always beings May 6 and ends May 12, Florence Nightingale's birthday. The week is commemorated with recognition programs for hard-working nurses. National School Nurse Day was established in 1972 to foster a better understanding of nurses roles in education. It is always celebrated on the Wednesday within National Nurse Week, Teacher Appreciation Week: Teacher Appreciation Week is celebrated around the first full week of May and is meant to honor the professionals that shape the lives of children around the world. National Police Week: Each year, the week that contains May 15 is officially designated as National Police Week. President John F. Kennedy first set this day aside in 1962 as a somber time to honor peace officers who were killed in the line of duty. National Police Week is an important chance to draw attention to the selfless men and women who put their lives on the line every day in order to protect us. National Transportation Week: This event was started by a woman named Charlotte Jones Woods in Texas in 1952, when she realized that the general public new next to nothing about transportation. However, the week did not become a nation wide event until 1962 when John F. Kennedy declared it an official holiday. During this week, we honor all the people who work to make all transportation systems an efficient, safe and reliable way to travel. It is always be the week in May which contains the third Friday. National Employee Health & Fitness Day: This day is always the third Wednesday in May. Administered annually by the National Association for Health & Fitness, NEHF is a national health observance, created to promote the benefits of physical activity for individuals through their work site health promotion activities. Founded in 1989 National Employee Health and Fitness Day has enlisted tens of thousands of participants from employers around the world. Celebrate Your Elected Officials Day: Annually the third Friday in May, its a time to contact elected officials and let them know that you appreciate their service to the country.

June

National Physical Education and Sports Week: Each year, this week is done to showcase quality sport and physical education programs in schools.

Recognitions: Effective Communications Month: This unique month focuses on enhancing people's ability to relate and converse with others in any kind of way they might have trouble. It's primary goal is to make all communicating parties feel as comfortable as possible and its is a good time to recognize and fix communication issues. National Student Safety Month: This is your chance to promote safety in schools. Fruit and Vegetable Month: Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals. Because of this, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables everyday can help reduce your risk of: o Heart disease o High blood pressure o Type II diabetes o Certain cancers Busy lives require food that's nutritious, energizing, and easy to eat on-the-go, like fresh fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are a natural source of energy and give the body many nutrients you need to keep going. Juneteenth: 19

Talking Points for Hugh Hattabaugh 10/1 Key Communicator Meeting

Thank you for inviting me to speak with you all today. I dont want to take up a lot of time, but I do want to update you on where we are as a district. The school year got off to a fairly smooth start. Of course, we are still in the process of hiring more teachers and moving some staff because of enrollment changes. (you can expound if you want to or not) By and large, though, teachers are teaching and students are learning. Thats why we need groups such as Key Communicators. We need the good things going on at schools to get out as often as the bad news always seems to. I know education is a complex and timeconsuming profession, so I applaud your commitment to being the newsperson for your schools in addition to everything else you do. Your extra effort can make the difference in peoples perceptions about our schools. Its also important that we as a district keep you informed about changes and initiatives that affect what you do every day. Thats where this Communications staff comes in. Through the Key Communicators Program,

youll receive district information and answers to questions you have about whats going on in CMS. You can take advantage of that and keep your colleagues informed. With that in mind, I want to make you aware of upcoming Strategic Plan initiatives. A few months ago, we asked employees to give feedback on a draft of Strategic Plan 2014, which is the follow up for Strategic Plan 2010. Weve gotten suggestions from staff and the community about that plan. On Nov. 5, Dr. Gorman will speak to community and business leaders about the vision for the district moving forward. This is breaking news you are the first employees to learn this: Well have meetings just for employees on Strategic Plan 2014 in November. Well get you the dates and times when they are finalized. Tell your colleagues we want them to come out, listen and ask any questions about the plan that they have since it will affect how everyone in CMS does their job. Are there any questions about the Strategic Plan? Any other questions?

Jumpstarts Read for the Record

October 8th, 2009
At Pearson, were excited to again be participating in Jumpstarts Read for the Record Campaign. This year, on October 8, Pearson people will join record-breakers everywhere as together we set a new record for the largest shared reading experience ever. Jumpstarts Read for the Record Campaign invites adults across America to read with young children. Together, we again aim to set a new world record for the number of children reading the same book all during a single day of national service for young people. This year, in honor of the fortieth anniversary of its rst publication, the ofcial book of Jumpstarts Read for the Record Campaign is Penguins The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle. Were bringing people together on October 8 because we want to raise public awareness of the learning gap that persists in early education. In America today, one in three children arrives at the rst day of school unprepared to learn, due primarily to economic inequality. By encouraging a single, common day of engagement, we hope to underscore the importance of early literacy, showcase the role Jumpstart plays every day in the lives of young children, and help raise funds to support Jumpstarts work with at-risk preschoolers across the country. Again this year, Pearson and its Penguin Young Readers Group are underwriting the ofcial book of Jumpstarts Read for the Record Campaign. This limited edition of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, with a foreword by Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira of NBCs TODAY show and an introduction by entertainer LL Cool J, will be available beginning this summer. Once again, 100 percent of the proceeds of sales of this ofcial book will go directly to Jumpstart, beneting their work with at-risk children in classrooms all year round. In addition, Pearson people are already making plans to take part in Read for the Record celebrations at schools, shopping malls, Pearson ofces, and other locations; read The Very Hungry Caterpillar; and help young people create their own personalized ABC books based on the Pearson Foundations Family Book Nights program. Were also doing all we can to support and encourage teachers and students everywhere to bring Read for the Record to their own schools and classrooms. Were creating Read for the Record Classroom Toolkits that will make it easy for teachers to host Read for the Record events. Were working with teachers and district superintendents across the country to highlight the importance and the power of reading in their schools. Were donating copies of The Very Hungry Caterpillar to schools, community organizations, and USO centers around the world, so that every child can help Read for the Record in October. Please join us and be part of this national day of service for young people on October 8. Also, please visit www.pearsonfoundation.org beginning April 1, 2009, and nd out more.

Pearson is proud to be the Founding Partner and Sponsor of Jumpstarts Read for the Record Campaign. Together, Pearson people and businesses helped to raise almost $2,000,000 during the 2008 Campaign. Again last year, more than 1,500 Pearson people from 40 businesses around the world took part in Read for the Record celebrations. Find out more about the Pearson-Jumpstart partnership, and about the ways that Pearson helps people around the world to live and learn. Visit www.pearsonfoundation.org.

PHOTO & ESSAY CONTESTS

$1,000 $500 , $250

for 2nd place
Winners receive $$ in a

for 1st place, for 3rd place

certificate of deposit!

18 prizes total Theme:

Prizes awarded in each age category: 13-14, 15-16, 17-18 Must be between

What does saving money mean to you?

13-18 yrs. old

November 30, 2009 deadline

For contest details, visit:

www.latinoccu.org
or call (919) 688-9270

CONCURSOS DE FOToGRAFA & ENSAYO

1.000 dlares

para el 1er puesto,

500 dlares para el 2 puesto, 250 dlares para el 3 puesto

er

Ganadores recibirn el dinero en un certificado

de depsito

Tema:

18 premios en total
Premios para cada categora: Edades 13-14, 15-16, 17-18 Tienes que tener entre Fecha lmite:

Qu significa el ahorro para ti?

13 y 18 aos

30 de noviembre de 2009

Para ms detalles sobre el concurso, visita:

www.latinoccu.org
o llama al (919) 688-9270

Teachers Should Battle Poor Publicity

Page 1 of 4

Published on Edutopia (http://www.edutopia.org) Home > Blogs > Heather Wolpert-Gawron's blog > Teachers Should Battle Poor Publicity

Teachers Should Battle Poor Publicity

By Heather Wolpert-Gawron Created 2009-09-04 17:48 The online headline reads, "Does your child have this teacher?" You follow the link and wince as the clip from last night's local news shows the cell phone camera footage of a teacher, veins popping, eyes bulging in anger, using language only a sailor could love. Why is it that the worst teaching representatives seem to become the viral video villain-celebrities we see on YouTube [1], as if this level of inappropriateness were a common disease facing education today? I'm frustrated by the ease in which the news reports these horrible situations. But I don't blame the news. I tire of the publicity behind those YouTube-worthy rants, those rare abuses in schools made seemingly frequent, as if they, along with the achievement gap and childhood obesity, were a chronic problem. But I don't blame YouTube. In fact, I believe that, rather than spending my day dwelling on how those teachers got there and how they remain there, the more productive way to battle these teachers and the bleeding out of our profession's reputation is for those of us who love this job -- and we are the majority -- to battle the poor publicity with the sword of our own successes. Education used to be solitary, with teaching and student-teacher interactions occurring mostly behind closed doors. But the job has changed. Collaboration has become a key to our survival. Teaching with transparency and with an open door -- to share evidence of our ability -- has become a necessity. And who can blame the powers that be when our challenges and our horrors have become far more public than our glories? It sounds so benign, but teaching must become a profession that demands more positive attention. We can't afford to be modest anymore. I know we wear a lot of hats already -- and some of them should not be ours to wear. But it is our job to control our own reputation as a profession, and we aren't taking that responsibility seriously. I blame teachers and administrators who don't see that publicity is a must, a necessity to the future of our profession. I always tell new teachers to take a course in publicity, learn to pitch and sell what you do, so that people know your worth. Learn how to control your own public relations, I always say. And it isn't just for the good of the profession. Let's face it -- a teacher with good PR is one a school district is not eager to get rid of. Overall, I think enhancing public education's reputation should be managed according to the trickle-up theory: Something great going on in the classroom ripples into things great going on in the school, in that school's district, in that district's town, and so on. It keeps growing until the public can't not hear about the great things going on in education. http://www.edutopia.org/print/6657 9/10/2009

Teachers Should Battle Poor Publicity

Page 2 of 4

Teachers have insider knowledge of school successes, so it is our duty to go public with those victories, big and small, from the at-risk student who gets his first B to an award of a grant that funds a computer lab. So, what can you do? It all starts with the classroom teacher: Call the front office. Teachers must stop waiting to be observed to show themselves off. They must call their principals when something great is happening. Principals respond to the come-and-check-this-out phone call, and even if they can't come, they know when success is happening. Contact the press. Teachers must learn the name of the education editor at the local newspaper. If something is newsworthy -- a project, a perspective, an accomplishment from you or a student -- get it out there. Blog. I discovered early on that there are some elements to teaching that I love and some that I don't. The parts I love are the students, creating curriculum, and lifelong learning. The parts I don't are the isolation and the negative reputation. And I hate feeling like a victim, so for me, I blog. I write articles. I teach teachers. But if you don't want to blog, that's fine -- just find someone who does, and get them to profile some of what you're doing in the classroom. Share your successes! Create a display and submit to the school or district publication. OK, so maybe you don't want to share in a blog the coolness of what you do. And maybe you don't want to call a newspaper editor about a challenge you've overcome in the classroom. At least get your accomplishments publicized at a school board meeting or tap that hallway bulletin board for some of your students' best work. Contact the PTA and write a paragraph about what's going on in your classroom -- a project or lesson that's particularly cool. It doesn't matter what the size of the pond is; be a respected member of it. Post a project or lesson online. Go to TeacherTube [2] and post a lesson or a project that really rocked. Submit student work in online essay, poetry, and filmmaking contests. Their successes translate to yours and to ours as a profession. Imagine the power of education if every teacher worked to publicly celebrate their successes at least once a year. After all, it is rarely the saved student we go home feeling good about; rather, it's the one we've lost that plagues us. Shake your head clear of the fog and be proud: You bring students back from the brink of failure every day. You help kids learn how to think, how to share, how to disagree. You are the one that teaches them the rules of the game. You are the one that teaches them how to create their own game. You teach them how to communicate -- analytically, persuasively, and responsively. You are the one that teaches them to question. So, it's up to you to get it out there. It's not just for the good of you, the individual teacher, but also for the good of the staff, and even the profession. It's now your duty.
Core Concepts

Comprehensive Assessment Integrated Studies Project Learning Social and Emotional Learning Teacher Development Technology Integration http://www.edutopia.org/print/6657 9/10/2009

Key Communicator E-mail Greeting, key communicator! Thank you again for your commitment to getting the good news out about your schools and to sharing district news with your colleagues. You are the folks who hit the ground running every day, working hard to make this district operate and I applaud you for taking the time to work with the Communications Department. If you came out to the meeting, I hope you had as wonderful a time as I did. I was so encouraged by the large turnout and the enthusiasm I saw on the faces of so many smart and dedicated employees. I want to again thank Bonapart Catering for serving up some spicy chicken and fixings for us. The great food donated by that catering company made our kick off even more festive. For those who expressed an interest in using that catering company for events, click here for an electronic copy of the menu and contact information. Here are some highlights from the Oct. 1 meeting: Key Communicator General Information Here are some documents to give you a better understanding of the role of key communicators. Key Communicator Job Descriptions Key Communicator FAQ Key Communicator Meeting Dates Media Directory Hugh Hattabaugh Chief Operating Officer Hugh Hattabaugh informed key communicators about the importance of their dedication to getting the good news out about schools, saying PTAs have expressed that need to CMS executive staff. Hattabaugh also discussed Strategic Plan 2014, saying, once it is released next month, employees will be able to ask questions and attend meetings to find out how this plan will affect their jobs and all that they do in CMS. Look for information about this in DirectLine and staff e-mails soon. Submitting news stories to Communications We want your news! This year is challenging as everyone has been asked to do more with less. But, unless you tell the public

what that looks like, they dont know how hard youre working each day to make sure schools run effectively and students are learning. Let us know how you and your colleagues are doing more with less. No one can tell your story better than you! In fact, click here for an article by a teacher about why educators need to battle negative publicity. New submission process. The new process for submitting news is as follows: o Go to the Intranet. o Click on the Share a News Story link at the very bottom of Quicklinks. o Copy the information on that page and insert it into an email. o Fill out the information and include the name of your school or department in the subject line. o Send that e-mail to keyinfo@cms.k12.nc.us. It goes to the same recipients as the previous submissions, but you have copy to retain for your records and you can attach documents or pictures. Remember, the earlier you submit news, the better. We typically ask for at least two weeks notice. Need some tips for submitting news stories? Check out these items online to help you: o Tips for Writing a Press Release: This gives you information to help you formulate the most newsworthy news submissions. o Annual Recognitions: This gives you recognitions such as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, that can help you when planning events or looking for the hook that may pull in some media.

Other Items discussed at the meeting Employee discounts. If you know of anyone interested in offering discounts to CMS employees, have them contact Oweeta Shands at o.shands@cms.k12.nc.us, discountmail@cms.k12.nc.us or (980) 343-6314. She manages the CMS incentives program and coordinates gathering the incentives that appear in DirectLine and on the Intranet. Click here to find information on Jumpstarts Read for the Record and the Cooperativa Latino Credit Unions photo and essay contest for Latino students. Whos your account rep? Check out the last page of the media directory for the name of the Communications person who serves your learning community. If youre a department key

communicator, Im your contact. Feel free to contact your account rep is you have questions about news submissions or other communication inquiries. If the media unexpectedly shows up on your schools campus and Communications didnt contact you ahead of time, you DO NOT have to allow them to come in. Your first and most important business is education they need to understand that. You are always welcome to call the Media Line at 980-343-6243 for assistance in dealing with the media. Nominate a colleague for an Employee Excellence Award. So far, two CMS employees have received more than $300 in prizes for going above and beyond their jobs. If you know someone who deserves this honor, click here for the form, print it, fill it out and send it to me (fax to 343-3647 or courier 835). The next meeting will be 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 19, in the Education Center board room. CMS TV station manager Donald Tate will discuss how you can take the best digital photos for CMS TV, other media outlets and to use for promotion of your schools. Well also discuss developing a communication plan for your school. Students need to have a signed photo/video release form in order to be photographed individually or interviewed by local media. However, photos of two or more students are considered directory information and are public record. Its still better to have the signed forms. Here is the link to the release form: http://www.cms.k12.nc.us/mediaroom/backtoschool/Documents /6162.5_PhotoVideo_0509_FORM.pdf.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Key Communicator Program

Getting the news out for CMS.

THE SCHOOL COMMUNICATOR

State Of Our Schools
CMS Superintendent Dr. Peter C. Gorman will review Strategic Plan 2010: Educating Students to Compete Locally, Nationally and Internationally and launch the districts new Strategic Plan 2014: Teaching Our Way to the Top at the CMS State Of Our Schools event Nov. 5. Strategic Plan 2014 will serve as a blueprint to guide and measure the districts work through the next four years. The plan has two goals: improve teaching and managing performance. It also includes areas of focus such as environmental stewardship and parent and community connections to assist with meeting the goals. To develop this plan, CMS sought feedback from the community and employees. The plan and supporting information will be available on the CMS Web site Nov. 5. Need A Refresher?
Below are links to the documents that weve shared so far this year. Key Communicator Job Descriptions Key Communicator FAQ Key Communicator Meeting Dates Media Directory Teachers Should Battle Poor Publicity Annual Recognitions Vol. I, Is. III, Nov. 3, 2009

News submission spotlight

Blythe Elementary Shares a Plan to Celebrate Veterans
Blythe Elementary key communicator Joan Gaston impressed account rep Kathleen Johansen with a great news submission for her schools assembly to honor veterans. It has a great news hook for Veterans Day, it shows that they have character by not only honoring the veterans but also inviting them to participate in the event and its very visual, Johansen said. Want to see the submission? Click here. A Shout Out! Tahira Stalberte wants to thank the Achievement Zone key communicators for the news submissions so far this school year. Keep up the good work!

From CMS Communications...

Is Your School on Facebook? Did you know that CMS has a Facebook page? You can find the page by going to www.facebook.com/
CharlotteMecklenburgSchools.

Holiday Stories?
Does your school or department have a great news item to share about plans for Thanksgiving or other upcoming holidays? Let us know! Submit it through Share a News Story on the Intranet. You can also contact your Communications Department representative if you have questions about submissions: Achievement Zone: Tahira Stalberte (344-0160)

Is your school on Facebook? If you are, e-mail Judith Malveaux about how long your school has had a Facebook page and some of the ways it helps you communicate with parents and the community.

Central LC: Carmen Bray (343-1140) Departments: Judith Malveaux (343-0760) East LC: Cynthia Robbins Shah-Khan (343-1081) North: Kathleen Johansen (343-0472) Northeast: Donald Tate (343-5194) South: Samantha Evans (343-0954) West: LaTarzja Henry (344-0009)

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Key Communicator Program

Getting the news out for CMS.

THE SCHOOL COMMUNICATOR

Local reporters to talk about news submissions
What makes an event newsworthy? Who better to ask than the people who cover news? On Thursday, Nov. 19, (3:30 p.m. in the Education Center board room) key communicators will be able to ask members of the local media about what makes a story news worthy and how they decide to cover and not cover news events. The invited guests include: Steve Lyttle, Charlotte Observer. Steve has been with the Observer for a long time and is very familiar with the district. His duties changed in recent years; Steve is now responsible for posting breaking news stories to the Web site and is a full-time online writer. He will continue covering some feature stories. Dedrick Russell, WBTV. Dedrick is the only education reporter in the area assigned to do a CMS story every day. He covers the big-issue stories in the district as well as features and lighter stories, but generally looks for a hard angle. Dedrick has been covering CMS for a long time, is very familiar with the district and has many contacts with officials and school employees. Glenn H. Burkins, Qcitymetro.com. Glenn is the editor and publisher of Qcitymetro.com, an independent, locally owned Web site offering news and information specific to Charlottes African American community. Bring your questions and your news ideas!
Vol. I, Is. IV, Nov. 17, 2009

News submission spotlight Donuts with Dads part of a string of good submissions from Highland Renaissance
Highland Renaissance key communicator Katossa Brown has sent in several good submissions, said media relations supervisor Cynthia Robbins Shah-Khan. They include a gang awareness workshop, a truancy initiative and a donuts with dads event at her school. They are all pretty good, Shah-Khan said. This donuts with dads event is done at many schools, but her description of the event and why it is different made it interesting and explained why it is newsworthy. Click here to see Browns donuts with dads news submission.

From CMS Communications... Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are here again
The writing portion of the Scholastic Art & Writing contest will be sponsored by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library. Each middle and high school English department received a poster and basic rules to ensure students know how to enter the contest. See you Thursday! You can also get details from www.artandwriting.org to learn The next key communicator about the categories, rules, and rewards for each student that meeting will be held this Thurs- participates. The project manager for these contests attended the national day, Nov. 19, from 3:30 to 4:45 awards ceremony for the awards last year and was able to p.m. in the Education Center experience the joy of these students walking across the stage board room. at Carnegie Hall. The library would love to see more participation from the schools this year to ensure as many children get Dont forget to register in to participate as possible. MyPD if you want CEU credit . If you need another poster or have questions, contact the project manager for the writing portion, Arden McLaughlin, at (704) 416-0705.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Key Communicator Program

Getting the news out for CMS.

THE SCHOOL COMMUNICATOR

Share stories about your season of giving
Its that time of the year again the season when your students and staff give generously to their community. We want your stories of generosity! CMS TV is producing the annual holiday special Season of Giving. The program features musical performances from across the district and stories of charity and generosity by CMS students. Examples of stories include helping the homeless, buying gifts for the needy, visiting hospitals or nursing homes and preparing care packages to send to our troops. Help us include your school in this special presentation and on the CMS Web site by submitting information of the events happening on your campus. Send information to keyinfo@cms.k12.nc.us. Make sure you put Holiday Story in the subject line. Stories are due by the end of day on Friday, Dec. 4. If you have a question about a submission, contact your account representative. Achievement Zone: Tahira Stalberte (344-0160) Central LC: Carmen Bray (343-1140) Departments: Judith Malveaux (343-0760) East LC: Cynthia Robbins Shah-Khan (343-1081) North: Kathleen Johansen (343-0472) Northeast: Donald Tate (343-5194) South: Samantha Evans (343-0954) West: LaTarzja Henry (344-0009)
Vol. I, Is. V, Dec. 1, 2009

News ideas you can use Looking for recognitions that can make your events more newsworthy? Well, December and January have plenty. Check out the following annual recognitions. Click on the recognition for more information. December

National Hand Washing Awareness Month Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month National Inclusive Schools Week (Dec. 7-11) January Financial Wellness Month Family Fit Lifestyle Month International Creativity Month National Poverty in America Awareness Month National Hobby Month National Eye Care Month National Mentoring Month National Handwriting Day

From CMS Communications... Tips from the prosPut a face on your news submissions On Nov. 19, three local news reporters spoke with key communicators about how they select news to cover, what makes good news submissions and how to find the angle that can make the mundane more interesting. One of the things they emphasized is putting a face on a news story. People really drive stories more than anything, said QCityMetro.com Editor Glenn Burkins. Readers really want to know about people, so a news story submission works when there is a face a student or staff member to Key communicator meeting connect the audience with the news. Mark your calendar for the next key Want to know more? Look for more tips from the communicator meeting. It will be pros in upcoming issues of this newsletter. Thursday, Jan. 14, at 3:30 p.m. in To contact Burkins or other media, please refer to the Education Center board room. their contact information in your media directory.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Key Communicator Program

Getting the news out for CMS.

THE SCHOOL COMMUNICATOR

Viewers are news organizations ABCs
News organizations seek ratings and readers the way schools strive for high academic achievement. Your school is judged by how well all students succeed and a television station is judged by how many folks tune in. We need to get viewers, WBTV reporter Dedrick Russell said at the Nov. 19 key communicator meeting. If news organizations are going to devote resources to cover a story at your school, it has to involve something that will make people tune it or want to read about it. Here are some tips to make your submissions more appealing: Think visually. What will provide great images on television? What events and stories draw you in? Whats happening now? Reporters cover the news of the day, Russell said. Theyre more likely to cover an event if its tied to something timely. For example, students reciting speeches from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. may be a good story for King Day, though it may get passed over on another news day. Its all in the timing. Its really important to get advanced notice on news, said Charlotte Observer reporter Steve Lyttle. School staff spends much of their time providing students the best academics possible. It is, however, important to let people know academic achievement is occurring through great news stories. BUT, when you give news reporters or CMS Communications short notice, it becomes difficultsometimes impossible to cover your event. Dont be afraid to make suggestions. Dont let a fear of rejection dissuade you from submitting news, Lyttle said. Keep trying. Keep at it. Eventually, something you might not think is good may strike us as a good story. Keep the ideas coming.
Vol. I, Is. VI, Dec. 15, 2009

Steves Coats for Kids CMS is participating in Steve's Coats for Kids, a coat-collection through WSOC-TV. Meteorologist Steve Udelson asks viewers to donate new or gently used coats for needy children. All sizes including adult are needed. There will be collection boxes in each learning community office, as well as the Ed Center, Walton Plaza, Auxiliary Services, the Craig Avenue transportation facility, Airport Center and City View. The WSOCTV coat drive runs Jan. 715, but CMS will participate Jan. 4-12. Please make sure donated items are collected in sturdy, heavy-duty bags and delivered to drop-off locations by Jan. 12.

DuPont Challenge Science Essay Competition

The 24th annual DuPont Challenge Science Essay Competition is accepting entries through Jan. 31. The competition invites students in seventh through 12th grade to research and write a 700- to 1,000-word essay Next meeting: Jan 14! about a scientific discovery, theory, event or technological The next key communicator application that has captured their interest. meeting will be held Thursday, Essays are judged on mechanics and conventions, ideas and Jan. 14, from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. content, organization, style and creativity and voice. Winners receive savings bonds up to $5,000 and an expenses-paid trip in the Education Center board to Walt Disney World and the Kennedy Space Center. room. The program also rewards the unique contributions of the Dont forget to register in teachers of the winning students with trips with winners, $500 MyPD if you want CEU credit . education grants and sponsorship to attend the 2011 NSTA National Conference on Science Education in San Francisco. For more information on classroom use and the competition, visit the DuPont Challenge Web site.

Judith A. Malveaux
From: Sent: To: Subject: Importance: Judith A. Malveaux Tuesday, January 12, 2010 9:46 AM Judith A. Malveaux Come and get your goodie bag at the Key Communicator Meeting on Thursday (3:30 p.m.) in the Ed Center... High

FifthThirdBankwillbeonhandtotalkaboutthebank'sCommunityMattersProgram.They'rebringinggoodiebagsfor everyoneattending! MikeSussmanfromCMSTVwillalsobeonhandtotalkabouthowyoucantakethebestphotosfortheweb.Comeout bringyourdigitalcamerasifyoucanandlearnabouthowyourqualityphotoscanhelpyouimproveyourschoolor department'sWebsiteandgetyourstoriesonCMSTVandtheCMShomepage. Also,don'tforgettosendinanynewsstoryideasfor: MLKDay(dueby6p.m.today) NationalMentoringMonth TheWinterOlympics Ifyouhaveanyquestionsorconcerns,don'thesitatetocontactyourareaaccountreps:
Achievement Zone: Tahira Stalberte (344-0160) Central LC: Carmen Bray (343-1140) Departments: Judith Malveaux (343-0760) East LC: Cynthia Robbins Shah-Khan (343-1081) North: Kathleen Johansen (343-0472) Northeast: Donald Tate (343-5194) South: Samantha Evans (343-0954) West: LaTarzja Henry (344-0009)

Thanksforallyoudo.We'llseeyouThursday.
Judith Malveaux
Internal Communications Supervisor Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 701 E. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28202 (980) 343-0760 (980) 722-0258 (cell) (980) 343-3647 (fax)

www.facebook.com/CharlotteMecklenburgSchools

I reach further so students can be globally competitive.

Tip #1 - Framing
Dont always put your subject in the middle of the shot. Look all around your subject to frame them.

Tip #2 - Focus
Focus First, Shoot Second
Most cameras will auto-focus if you depress the button half way.

Hold the camera perfectly steady

Be careful of movement caused by pressing the button. The more zoomed in you are, the more small motions are amplified

Keep holding the camera perfectly steady until totally done.

Tip #2 - Focus
KEEP IN MIND: Shutter Delay Delay in time between when the button was pressed and when the shutter opens. Know your camera! Exposure Time Length of time the shutter lens is open.
lower light = longer exposure time

Where are these kids? What are they doing?

Tip #3 Tell Story with Variety

In addition to your basic shots Establishing Shot (Wide Shot)
Show them where you are. Show them why youre there.

Tip #3 Tell Story with Variety

In addition to your basic shots Establishing Shot (Wide Shot) Close Up

Tip #3 Tell Story with Variety

In addition to your basic shots Establishing Shot (Wide Shot) Close Up Action Shot Reaction Shots Alternate Angles (Get Creative)
Low angle? Over the shoulder? Reverse over the shoulder?

Tip #4 Lighting
Avoid Backlighting! Outdoors with sun in front of you

Tip #4 Lighting
Avoid Backlighting! Outdoors with sun in front of you Indoors in front of windows

Tip #4 Lighting
A flash can help* (if at the right distance)

Tip #5 Editing?
If youre going to edit photos before uploading Crop (leave padding when you shoot)

Tip #5 Editing?
If youre going to edit photos before uploading Crop (leave padding when you shoot) Correct colors Correct brightness Resize*
You DONT want to upload a full size photo

Tip #6 Forget Megapixels

Typical camera photo 3000 pixels by 2000 pixels 6 megapixels

Tip #6 Forget Megapixels

Typical camera photo 3000 pixels by 2000 pixels 6 megapixels

Typical website story photo 300 pixels by 200 pixels 0.06 megapixels

Judith A. Malveaux
From: Sent: To: Subject: Importance: Judith A. Malveaux Wednesday, March 03, 2010 2:21 PM Judith A. Malveaux Join us for the next Key Communicator Meeting on Thursday, March 11 High

We'llmeetonMarch11at3:30p.m.intheEducationCenterBoardRoom. Themajorityofthemeetingwillbedevotedtoansweringyourquestionsasbestwecanonthebudget.We'llalso discussthefinalmeetingoftheyear,whichwillbeatthesametimeandlocationonMay13. Feelfreetocontactmeoryouraccountrepsifyouhaveanyquestions.ForthoseintheWestLearningCommunity, LaTarzjaHenryisonmaternityleave,soyoucanalsocontactmewithquestions. SeeyouMarch11.

Judith Malveaux Internal Communications Supervisor Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 701 E. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28202 (980) 343-0760 (980) 722-0258 (cell) (980) 343-3647 (fax) http://www.cms.k12.nc.us http://www.facebook.com/CharlotteMecklenburgSchools

Fifth Third Community Matters for CMS

Fifth Third Bank is proud to be a supporter of Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools and offer teachers, employees, parents and PTAs special benefits through our Community Matters Program for Schools. The Program offers a special money-saving package of banking benefits, financial education for students, parents and staff, and the opportunity for your schools PTA to receive a cash donation of up to $250 per household from Fifth Third Bank.

Special banking benefits for CMS staff and parents include:

Checking account with free use of other banks ATMs Other banks ATM fees automatically rebated up to 10 times per month (Up to a $500 annual value)1 Choice of checking accounts including Rewards Checking with points earned for direct deposit2 Reward Points for non-pin debit and credit card transactions Free Internet and Mobile Banking3 Online discounts at thousands of stores including Best Buy, Sears and Home Depot Free first order of checks Overdraft protection available from savings, credit card or home equity line4 Email and text message alerts keep you informed of account activity Additional special banking benefits for you include: Free Financial Needs Analysis with your Personal Banker Special credit card offers4 Double interest bonus with Relationship Savings account5 Rate discounts on installment loans, home equity lines and mortgages6 Rate bonus on CDs and discount on safe deposit box rental7 Free 30-day trial of Identity Alert protection Free notary service, cashier checks and travelers checks8 Free access to Financial Seminars such as First Time Home Buying, Saving for Retirement, and others

Open your account and earn up to a $250 donation for your school!9
The more products you have with Fifth Third the more money your PTA can earn. Heres how the PTA donation program works: Open a new checking account with a debit card and a savings account Open a Home Equity Line of Credit Purchase a home with a Fifth Third mortgage or refinance from another mortgage company Open a Fifth Third credit card account Total possible donation to PTA per household
Fifth Thirds Donation to PTA

$50 $50 $125 $25 $250

For more information, please visit your nearest Fifth Third Banking Center or call 704-688-1102.
See reverse side for full details and disclosures.

Fifth Third Bank. The things we do for dreams.

For over 150 years, Fifth Third Bank has been helping people reach their dreams. Whether thats helping you be financially ready to start a family, providing a loan to make room for an expanding family, saving for college, or retiring in style, Fifth Third is there for you. And being there for you couldnt be more convenient with over 1,300 locations including 56 in North Carolina. Plus, free Telephone Banking, Internet Banking and Mobile Banking3 lets you bank whenever, wherever you are 24/7. Come talk to us. Visit a Banking Center or call 1-877-579-5353. 56 North Carolina Locations
Banner Elk 828-898-6351 Birkdale Village 704-688-1560 Black Mountain 828-669-8481 Boger City 704-732-3333 Boiling Springs 704-434-3444 Brevard 828-884-2077 Carmel Rd. 704-541-0047 Colony Rd. 704-688-1435 Concord Main 704-721-4317 Cornelius 704-688-1400
DISCLOSURES 1 Fifth Third will automatically pay back any fees you incur from other banks for making withdrawals from their domestic ATMs up to 10 transactions per month. Fifth Third will not charge you a fee to withdraw at any other banks domestic ATM. $500 example assumes 10 free non-fifth third atm transactions (normally $2 each) and 10 rebated surcharges of $3 each in a billing cyle. 2 Must open a checking and savings account with a debit card. $50 minimum deposit in each account required to open. Returned check and overdraft fees apply to all checking accounts. Accounts closed within 180 days will be charged $25. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of 1/04/10. Fifth Third Interest Checking pays 0.05% APY on balances below $5,000 and 0.10% APY on balances of $5,000 and above. Club 53 Checking pays 0.05% APY. Rates may change after account opening. Fees may reduce earnings. 3 There is no fee to access Fifth Third Mobile Banking. However, Internet data charges may apply, as well as text message charges. Please contact your mobile service provider for details. 4 All loans subject to credit review and approval. 5 Fifth Third checking account required. Additional terms and restrictions apply. Please contact a Fifth Third Banking Center for details. $50 minimum deposit to open a Relationship Savings account 6 Available when payments are deducted automatically from your Fifth Third account using BillPayer 2000. All loans subject to credit review and approval. Mortgage products offered by Fifth Third Mortgage Company and Fifth Third Mortgage-MI, LLC. 7 Valid on CDs of 24 months or less. $500 minimum required to open. Does not apply to promotional rates. 8 Regular fees apply for Checks for Two and Gift Checks. Offer not valid for student, commercial or non-profit accounts. 9 Offer and terms subject to change without notice. This program is not valid in combination with any other offer. Not available for student, commercial or non-profit accounts. Donations can only be made to certified non-profit organizations. Donation will be paid to the non-profit organization on a quarterly basis for accounts opened the previous quarter that are active and meet the requirements as specified above. Fifth Third reserves the right to not pay the bonus if we reasonably believe that the account does not meet eligibility requirements. Fifth Third Bank not responsible for any tax consequences to the organization for receipt of any funds.

Cotswold 704-688-1420 Davidson 704-892-4644 Eastland 704-568-7144 Forest City 828-245-1191 Harrisburg 704-455-2141 Highway 29 704-785-9880 Huntersville 704-875-1500 Indian Trail 704-821-7063 Kannapolis Main 704-933-1193 Kannapolis Midway 704-932-3151

Kings Mountain 704-734-4444 Landis 704-857-2405 Lincolnton 704-732-6200 Maiden-Denver 704-483-6041

Mooresville 704-664-4488 Mt Pleasant 704-436-6514 NoDa 704-247-2940 Oakdale Rd. 704-393-0126

Raleigh-Six Forks Tyvola Rd. 919-793-2600 704-817-6680 Renaissance Sq. 704-688-4599 Roosevelt Blvd. 704-698-1440 Rutherfordton 828-287-2244 Shelby 704-480-4444 Southpark 704-365-2880 Sparta 336-372-5631 Sunset Rd. 704-598-2540 Troutman 704-528-0760 Tryon Rd. 704-373-0400 University 704-549-4406 Waterside Crossing 704-688-1570 Waxhaw-Cureton 704-698-1450 West Jefferson 336-246-8881 Wilmar 704-721-4700

Mallard Creek Rd. Park Rd. 704-547-9616 704-688-1580 Marion 828-659-2121 Matthews 704-841-2202 Midland 704-888-5984 Mint Hill 704-688-1550 Monroe Main 704-289-9555 Port Village 704-664-4499 Raleigh-Atrium 919-573-1930 Raleigh-Cary 919-793-2540 Raleigh-Creedmoor 919-793-2560 Raleigh-Garner 919-793-2580

Fifth Third Bank, Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

VentanaEscolar MiGentenewspaperhasstartedaweeklycolumncalledVentanaEscolar(SchoolWindow)to featureaprofileofoneofourstudents.Thegoalofthiscolumnistohighlightanessaywritten bystudentstakingSpanishclasses(theydon'thavetobeLatino).Ineedyourhelpinpickingone studentfromyourschooltoparticipatethisyear.Ineedjustonestudentfromeachmiddleand highschooltoparticipate.Iknowweareallbusyandgettingadjustedtothenewschoolyear, butMiGentehasrequestedtohavetheessaysASAPsotheycanscheduletheminadvanceof whentheywillbepublished. Guidelinesforcontest: EssaysneedtobewritteninSpanishandshouldbenomorethan350words. Essaysshouldreflectpositiveexperiences.Examplesincludeenrichingsummer experiences,favoriteteacher,schoolsportsteams,preparingforcollege,favoriteclass, greateventattheirschool,etc TimeWarnerCablewillsponsorthisprogrambydonatingbookbagstoeachstudent whosearticleischosen. Beforesendingthestudentsessay;pleaseverifyheorshehasaCMSvideorelease formsignedbytheirparents. Pleaseletmeknowifyouareunabletotakeaheadshotofthestudent,Illbehappyto gotoyourschoolandtakeone. Emailessaystoana.brown@cms.k12.nc.us Thankyouinadvanceforyourhelp.Pleaseletmeknowifyouhaveanyquestions.

Judith A. Malveaux
From: Sent: Cc: Subject: Judith A. Malveaux Friday, March 12, 2010 12:57 PM Tahira Stalberte; Samantha G. Evans; Cynthia F. Robbins; Kathleen B. Johansen; Donald Tate; Carmen Bray; Ana P. Brown Key Communicator March 11 Meeting Recap

Good afternoon, key communicators. Ive attached links to the documents we discussed at yesterdays meeting. Just to recap: 1. Fifth Third supplied the refreshments and discussed the banks Community Matters program. It can be a fundraiser for your school. Here's the link to more information on the Fifth Third Community Matters Program: http://documents.cms.k12.nc.us/dsweb/Get/Document26590/CommunityMatters_Schools_2010_CMS.pdf 2. Dennis Covington discussed the budget process so far, outlining the scenarios developed by district staff, based on what funding CMS anticipates receiving. The scenarios range from flat funding to cuts of more than $80 million. Many key communicators asked about receiving the PowerPoint to share with community members. I couldnt upload it as a PowerPoint, so I had to make it a PDF. If you need the PowerPoint, I can send that to you individually. Please remember, you can inform the public about our current budget situation. For instance, you can tell them that last year the county cut local funding to CMS by $34 million. The next closest local cut a NC school district received was Wake County (which is larger than CMS). Wake was cut by $3 million. Board of Education policy prohibits using CMS resources (work time, computers, e-mails, phones, etc.) for political activity. If you as an individual or your PTAs or community partners want to express their concerns to county or other elected officials, they must do so on their own time and with their own resources. Below is the presentation, talking points to accompany it and a historical document you can use to inform your colleagues and community members about our current budget situation: Budget PowerPoint: http://documents.cms.k12.nc.us/dsweb/Get/Document26587/PowerPoint.pdf Talking Points to Accompany PowerPoint: http://documents.cms.k12.nc.us/dsweb/Get/Document-26588/talking+points.pdf Budget Historical Document: http://documents.cms.k12.nc.us/dsweb/Get/Document-26589/budget+primer.pdf You can continue to send any budget questions or suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us. 3. Donald Tate with CMS TV discussed a Web site that the station is working on that would provide links to stories on all schools. Once completed, schools could link CMS TV stories about them to their Web sites. When it's completed, principals will be informed about its existence and how it can be used to promote your schools. 4. Ana Brown discussed the School Window program. Mi Gente newspaper has started a weekly column called Ventana Escolar (School Window) to feature a
1

profile of one of our students. The goal of this column is to highlight an essay written by students taking Spanish classes (they don't have to be Latino). Ana needs your help in picking one student from your school to participate this year. She needs one student from each middle and high school to participate. Heres the link for more information: http://documents.cms.k12.nc.us/dsweb/Get/Document26591/Ventana+Escolar.pdf 5. Dont forget, our next and final meeting will be May 13. We will have food and further discuss the budget, the school year and any ideas you have for the key communicator program. I hope to see you there! If you have any questions about the meeting, or trouble with the links, just e-mail me. Im here to help! Have a great weekend!

Judith Malveaux Internal Communications Supervisor Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 701 E. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28202 (980) 343-0760 (980) 722-0258 (cell) (980) 343-3647 (fax) http://www.cms.k12.nc.us http://www.facebook.com/CharlotteMecklenburgSchools

Judith A. Malveaux
From: Sent: To: Subject: Judith A. Malveaux Tuesday, May 11, 2010 8:21 AM Judith A. Malveaux; Carmen Bray; Cynthia F. Robbins; Kathleen B. Johansen; Donald Tate; Samantha G. Evans; LaTarzja N. Henry; Tahira Stalberte REMINDER: Key Communicator meeting on May 13 at 3:30 p.m. in the Education Center board room.

We'llhaveacateredmealaswetalkaboutthefutureoftheprogramandbudgetcutsinthedistrict. We'llalsoansweranyquestionsyouhaveaboutthebudget,zonesandotherchangesinthedistrict.Ifyouhaveany questionsyou'dliketohaveanswered,youcansendthemalongbeforethemeetingoraskatthemeeting. Ihopetoseeyouthere.

Judith Malveaux Internal Communications Supervisor Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 600 E. Fourth Street Fifth Floor Charlotte, NC 28202 (980) 343-0760 (980) 722-0258 (cell) (980) 343-3647 (fax) http://www.cms.k12.nc.us http://www.facebook.com/CharlotteMecklenburgSchools

Facebook findings from districts

District Akron Who created/ Maintain s Alumni Atlanta Public Schools Buffalo Public Schools When Updated (frequency) rarely Content Posts from alumni friend posts from school advocates friend news releases/recr uitment friend Friends/ Fans # Friends/ Fans Annou nce Events Overall Impression poor Feed back ? yes

352 no

Atlanta

rarely

147 no

mixed

yes

Buffalo

frequently

DC Durham

Alumni Alumni

regularly infrequently

Ferndale (MI) Hickory Pittsburgh

Ferndale Schools Hickory Schools Alumni

frequently (every 2 weeks or so) n/a infrequently

Portland

Farmingto n (MN)

Alumni Farmingt on Area Public Schools

regularly

blogs/discus sions blogs/discus sions news releases/ne wsletter postings/ann ouncements post to employees news about alumni Advocacy information/u pdates news/update s/newsletter postings

friend friend

425 yes yes, reunion s/alum activitie 2,002 s 440 no

Good/well-maintained

no

mixed poor

yes yes

friend friend friend

153 yes 26 yes 181 no

Good new, hard to gauge effectiveness alumni interest

yes no yes

friend

95 yes

Good as advocacy tool

yes

frequently

fan

288 yes

Informative, wellmaintained

no

Boston

Duval County Fayettevill e (AR)

BPS Duval County Public Schools Fayettevil le Public Schools

frequently

frequently

frequently

announceme nts/news stories fan news releases/upd ates/announ cements fan announceme nts/invitation s/updates fan

383 no

Good information, but feedback is sometimes negative and postings are sometimes too long

yes

188 yes

152 yes

Indianapol is

IPS

infrequently

Newport News (VA)

NNPS

frequently

Richmond (VA)

Richmon d Schools regularly Roanoke City Public School

announceme nts/news fan stories announceme nts/links to newspaper stories/TV station fan news releases/upd ates/announ cements fan

140 yes

Good content, but posting too long Good, great tool to recruit people for events, board meetings When it was updated regularly, good content, including announcement about Swine Flu recommendations and students on trips with links to follow their blogs

no

yes

no

244 yes

Good content/not sure about the numerous links to media stories

yes

88 yes

Roanoke City (VA) Fairfax Counry Schools

infrequently

FCPS

frequently

announceme nts/pictures/ fan events announceme nts/info for parents/upda fan tes

95 yes

Good content, small fan base Not updated since February. Before than, content was regularly posted and very informative

no

no

1,221 yes

good communication tool/good for feedback

yes

FACEBOOK findings narrowed (district admin. only) Friends, Fans

District Buffalo Ferndale (MI) Farmington (MN) # Friends /Fans Enrollment Announce Events 425 37,000 yes 153 288 5,100 yes 6,300 yes Overall Impression Good/well-maintained Good Informative, well-maintained Good information, but feedback is sometimes negative and postings are sometimes too long Good content, but posting too long Good, great tool to recruit people for events, board meetings Good content/not sure about the numerous links to media stories Good content, small fan base good communication tool/good for feedback Feedback? no yes no

Boston Duval County Fayetteville (AR) Newport News (VA) Richmond (VA) Fairfax County Schools (VA)

383 188

56,000 no 130,000 yes

yes no

152 244 88 1,221

8,500 yes 31,000 yes 24,000 yes 168,000 yes

yes yes no yes

TWITTER findings from districts

District # Followers Updated Enroll ment Announce Events Announ ce News Other Items Overall Impression Good mix, but grammar/spelling issues: (Freedom Hi junior Blake OConnor & AP Rosemary Owens are invited to the Aspen Ideas Festival to meet world leaders, thinkers, artists, etc. 57% of Hillsborough schools graded A & 3/4 graded A or B. 2/3 of elementary schools (66%) got A's; 60% of middle schools got As. We got writing scores. Then 3rd grade reading & math scores. Next? The rest of the FCAT scores are due Thursday, May 28. Grades come later.) Info sometimes confusing or too long (Culturally Responsive Arts Education to Enhance Summer Regional Extended Learning Camp at Pittsburgh Lincoln K-8) Background too busy, but good information, regularly maintained Following Others?

Hillsborough (FL)

591

frequently

192,000

yes

yes

reminders, but mostly news and events

no

Pittsburgh Farmington (MN)

332

frequently

28,000

yes

yes

Mostly news releases Soliciting feedback/Internet outages Stimulus fund spending/Newswee k High Schools/graduation s/when closed Job postings/links to picture galleries vaccination reminders/solicit graduation DVDs Job postings/solicit feedback Board meetings/visits from feds/deadlines

229

104

frequently

6,300

yes

yes

no

Akron City Schools (OH) Yonkers Schools (NY) Newport News (VA) Fairfax Schools (VA) San Francisco Unified Hoover City Schools (AL)

54

regularly

24,000

yes

yes

125

frequently

24,400

yes

yes

Not bad- good way to announce closings, graduations, but not a lot of news Pretty good, well-maintained, but not most eye-catching posting (other than employment opportunities)

no

261

frequently

31,000

yes

yes

Very good mix of things

39

660

frequently

168,000

yes

yes

Good mix of items Pretty good information, but most are news stories or meeting announcements Picture links (and there are many) have no description to help with date, event, etc.

177

regularly

55,000

yes

yes

34

488

frequently

25,000

yes

yes

links to pictures

no

New York City Schools Baltimore City Schools Volusia County Schools )FL) Indianapolis City Schools Broward County Schools Mesa Public Schools (AZ) Ferndale Schools (MI) Forsyth County School (GA)

795 27

frequently infrequently

1.1 million 82,000

yes no

yes yes

Dress Code changes/replies to others/video links solicit volunteers schools closed due to flooded roads/graduations Magnet school info/new Web site launch New releases/announce board meeting viewing Newsletter links/summer hours scholarship information Solicit feedback/Monthly Superintendent blog

Very diverse postingstoo many, some meaningless, some grammar-challenged (Our PS 22 chorus is famous - check out them singing Lady GaGa!) Must be new - only one posting

45 21

62

regularly

63,000

yes

yes

88

infrequently

34,000

yes

yes

New, but not bad. Needs more news. bad link to homesite/once maintained with updates several times, but stopped, last post May 21

20

1,442 296 23

frequently frequently infrequently

256,000

yes yes

yes yes yes

Seems to be slower in summer, but content updated regularly, several times a week Postings OK, but few are interesting Must be new, sparse no

38 356

5,100

no

522

regularly

32,000

no

yes

Good mix of information

Some of what we DID find on the web for CMS

Posting to Facebook
Here are a few things (so far) we have determined as possible dos and donts for posting on the CMS Facebook page, based on observations from other districts:

DO POST 1. Back-to-school information Bell sked link Important transportation information 2. Immunizations 3. National recognitions 4. EOG/EOC results 5. Community Meetings 6. Volunteer/Mentor/Proctor requests 7. Inclement Weather Information 8. Upfront promos with links 9. Weekly News Update promo with link 10. Board meeting link (once available online) a. Highlights (one or two) with link to meeting once available for viewing online 11. Job Openings a. Specific postings (teacher positions) b. Link to postings page 12. Annual Report 13. School Report Cards link 14. State of Our Schools

DONT POST 1. Individual school stories/events unless receiving national recognitions 2. Media Tipsheets 3. School dedications 4. Random photos

Examples of Facebook postings

Example of Twitter postings

Dear CMS employees: Tonight we are opening our discussions with our Board about the 2010-2011 budget. As all of you know, the CMS budget is a process and not a short or easy one. This year its likely to be even longer and more difficult than usual, Im sorry to say. Tonights meeting is intended to give our Board some context for the first budget workshop, which is set for the end of this month -- January 25. The executive staff and I have been meeting with Education Resource Strategies for more than a year. ERS specializes in helping districts make sure that district spending aligns with district priorities, and thats what weve been working on. The ERS work is helping us make intentional, careful decisions about our priorities and our spending. It is so early in the budget process that we dont have any specific funding amounts from either the state or the county, our two biggest funding sources. But we have some early indicators of whats coming. I can summarize it for you in three words. Its not pretty. On the state side, there are already indications that money will be very tight. Perhaps even tighter than last year. Philip Price, chief financial officer for the Department of Public Instruction, told the Charlotte Observer over the weekend that more cuts seem likely this year. The state budget office has asked DPI for a variety of budget scenarios -- a little bit like the tiers we used in planning this years budget. The request is for one scenario with a three percent increase and then three scenarios with decreases of three, five and seven percent. And Bill Harrison, the chairman of the state board of education, told the Observer that The options are not good. You dont have to be a political pundit to conclude that if three out of four scenarios involve cuts, then cuts are the most likely option. What we dont know, and what we wont know for some time, is how much well have to cut and if it will be as large as last year, when we had to cut $87 million from our budget. But based on the early indicators, it is likely that there will be reductions in our state funding this year. On the local front, we have even less information. But again, the information we have is that money will be tight. As we begin to build our budget and decide how much local funding to request, I have asked our Board to keep a few things in mind. First, we took the biggest cut in local funding in the state last year -- $34 million. That reduction was more than ten times the next biggest local cut in North Carolina, which was the $3 million reduction in Wake County. So we had a very large reduction last year. Second, we have not had any kind of fiscal irregularity. Our budget is transparent from start to finish, and we have used the money we were given in exactly the way we said we would. CMS has had no cost overruns or emergency requests --this despite the fact that we had to make several hastily announced reversions, state and local, last year. That is a tribute to the outstanding work of Sheila Shirley and the financial staff. In a year marked by widespread financial uncertainties, Sheila and her

staff have made sure that CMS finances are managed carefully and well. We are fortunate to have her financial leadership and expertise in our district. We are also fortunate that all of you, our employees, have been able to do more with less this year. Our progress as a district has been substantial, thanks to your dedication and commitment. Thank you. On the federal level, we are supporting the state application for Race to the Top funds. Although the national amount is very large, four billion dollars for education, the amount were likely to receive should North Carolina be successful is a tiny fraction of that. We estimate it will be $4 million or so. We all need to be clear about the role of this money, however. It will help us pursue some of the innovative measures in our Strategic Plan 2014. But it is not going to shield us in any way from state and local cuts, and it is not intended to be a stopgap for shortfalls in our normal funding. Its also important to keep in mind that we have a funding cliff after next year, when the federal stimulus money to the state stops. For CMS, that funding cliff is about $47 million -- and that means that this coming year is not the end of our budget difficulties. We have a significant funding cliff on the horizon for the 2011-2012 budget. Finally, I have asked our Board to keep in mind the mission of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Were a public school district funded with public money and open to any child in Mecklenburg County. We educate this communitys children. It is also our responsibility to be advocates for children. Our citizens want Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools to educate their children comprehensively and competitively. This community has a longstanding commitment to funding education. The budget shortfalls of the present are a reality. But I do not believe they have diminished in any way this communitys commitment to providing the best public education possible for its children. I hope that this year we will not have the pain of a budget with disproportionate cuts that fall most heavily on children and schools. But whatever comes our way, you can count on two things: Well tell you about it as it develops, using staff emails on a regular basis the way we did last year. And well remain focused on our most important job, educating children, just as we did last year. Pete c: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education

Dear CMS employees, Last night we gave a preliminary presentation to our Board about the 2010-2011 budget. Chief Financial Officer Sheila Shirley and Jonathan Travers of Education Resource Strategies (ERS) also gave presentations as part of our budget briefing. Shirleys presentation was an overview of the budget process, including a timeline, CMS revenue sources and expenditures, and the framework for developing the 2010-2011 budget. Click here to view the budget preview presentation. ERS is a non-profit organization that works closely with leaders of urban public school systems. The organization has worked with CMS for years to find ways to streamline district and school-level resources to improve instruction and student performance. The ERS presentation included options that would allow CMS to focus on student outcomes while generating savings. Click here to view the analysis from ERS. We included these two presentations so that you have access to the information from the meeting. We are also including a direct link to the budget presentation and discussion from last nights Board of Education meeting. I also talked about the budget process during this mornings weekly media briefing and that link is also included. Click here to watch the budget presentation and discussion from the Jan. 12 Board of Education meeting. Click here to watch the Jan. 13 media briefing. As I said yesterday, we intend to be as transparent as possible in this years budget process, although we hope it will be easier than last year. As always, we will plan for the worst and hope for the best. We will share additional information with you as it becomes available. Pete

From: superintendent Sent: Monday, January 25, 2010 10:27 AM To: cmsmailall Subject: 2010-11 Budget Process Begins

Goodmorning.Todaymarkstheofficialstartoftheplanningprocessforthe20102011budget. Ifyouarethinking,Didntwejustfinishthebudget?yourerightthisyearsbudgetwas adoptedinSeptember,whenthestateandcountyfundingbecamefinal. Nevertheless,itstimetostarton20102011.Wellbeginthisafternoonwithtwomeetingswith ourBoard. At2:30,WilliamJ.Slotnikwillpresentsomeinformationaboutpayforperformance.Heisthe founderandexecutivedirectoroftheCommunityTrainingandAssistanceCenter,whichhas beenworkingwithusontheTeacherIncentiveFundLeadershipforEducatorsAdvanced Performance(TIFLEAP).ImprovingperformanceisakeyelementofourStrategicPlan2014: TeachingOurWaytotheTop,andtheworkofTIFLEAPwillinformhowwegoabout strengtheningtheperformanceofourteachersandschoolleaders. At4:00,theBoardwillholditsfirstbudgetworksessionforthe20102011budget.These meetingsarepreliminaryandareintendedtohelpusunderstandwhattheBoardspriorities are. Thiswillbeanextensiveprocess,lastingaboutsixmonths.Iflastyearisanyindicatorofthis year,therewillbealotofchangesalongtheway.Butwewillkeepyouinformedthroughoutthe process.Wellbesendingweeklyemailstoemployees,aswedidlastyear(theymaynotarrive onFridaythisyear,however). Thereareotherwaysforouremployeestofollowthebudgetprocess,too.Inadditiontoe mailingweeklyBudgetBulletins,wellpostinformationaboutthebudgetasitevolvesonthe IntranetincludingPowerPointpresentationsandvideolinkstoBoardmeetings,worksessions andmediabriefings.Wellalsocontinuetoansweremployeesbudgetquestionsandwell acceptsuggestionsforwaystosavemoney.Sendquestionsandsuggestionsto budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us. Pete

PeterC.Gorman Superintendent 701EastMLK,Jr.Boulevard Charlotte,NC28202 Phone:9803436270

CMS EMPLOYEE BUDGET BULLETIN

FROM DR. GORMAN

1.25.2010

The district is beginning work on the budget for 2010-2011. Id like to be able to say that next years budget will be less painful than this years but I cant. The revenue shortfalls of last year both state and county are likely to continue into this year. The state and the county are our two main sources of funding and its likely that well be affected by the shortfalls. So we can expect to see more budget reductions for 2010-2011. Will we see a reduction in force again? I dont know. What I do know is that we will be looking at everything in an effort to save money and still be able to continue the important reforms were making to increase student achievement. Last year, we were criticized by some for raising concerns about the budget too early and alarming employees and others needlessly. In the end, the 2009-2010 budget required us to lay off almost 970 people and make reductions of $86 million far more than we had expected. I dont know what this year holds for us on the budget, although as I told the Board Jan. 12, Ive looked at the forecasts for the state and local revenue picture and its not pretty. As we did last year, were going to plan for the worst and hope for the best. I remain committed to making our budget process as transparent as possible for our employees and the public. That means sharing information early and often -- and Ill be doing that as the budget process moves along during the spring and early summer. Pete

BUDGET QUESTIONS

Q. How can I find out what was cut last year? A. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools had the largest local funding cut of any school
district in the state. As a result, CMS eliminated: 967.25 positions, including central-office staff, teachers, assistant principals, family advocates, teacher assistants and behavior modification technicians. 10,000 bus stops. This year's EMMY Awards, the employee recognition program.

To conserve resources and save money, CMS also cut: Funds from Auxiliary Services. Currently, CMS has the same number of skilled trades (electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, painters, carpenters etc.) positions maintaining more than 20 million square feet as it did with 8 million square feet. Energy costs by exploring energy conservation, including having a four-day work week during the summer months, which saved a little more than $500,000. In fact, over the last 18 months, CMS has saved almost $3 million through achieving EnergyStar rating at 44 schools, the four day work week and other energy saving initiatives. Q. How do I make a suggestion to CMS about the budget? A. As the process moves along, we invite you to submit suggestions or questions you have by e-mailing budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

Q.

Can I e-mail elected officials about the districts budget needs?

A. CMS staff cannot use their CMS e-mail, phone, or other equipment, nor can they use work time, to lobby elected officials. This is explained in full in Policy Code GBI Political Activity and in a memo on political activity.

Email correspondence to and from this address is subject to public records requests pursuant to the North Carolina Public Records Law, resulting in monitoring and potential disclosure of this message to third parties. In compliance with federal law, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools administers all education programs, employment activities and admissions without discrimination against any person on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age or disability.

Dear CMS employees, Our Board held its first budget work session for the 2010-2011 budget today. Board members heard from Jonathan Travers with Education Resource Strategies (ERS) and Sheila Shirley, our chief financial officer, during the two-hour session. Board members reviewed cuts and reductions made in the 2009-2010 budget as part of the session, and discussed priorities in broad terms. Its important that we plan ahead, so were asking the Board to provide guidance on its priorities throughout the process and today was the first formal opportunity for the Board to do that. Jonathan reviewed materials about strategic use of resources with the Board, including research about class sizes and teacher effectiveness. Sheila answered some questions that had been submitted earlier by the Board. These touched on issues of transportation, federal stimulus funding, book storage and distribution, teacher turnover and consolidation of services with the county. The presentations were followed by discussion. Board members talked about a wide range of areas to be studied, including high school scheduling, virtual class offerings, equity, vocational classes and advanced courses in high school that serve small numbers of students. Board members also asked for additional information about staffing across the district and funding sources. Board members also said they wanted to hear from district employees about creative ways to save money this year. Well share your suggestions with them send your ideas and your questions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us. Also, please keep in mind: this is the beginning of a very long process. Were going to hear a lot of ideas and discussion before decisions are made and we want to hear from all of you before we begin making decisions. Pete

DearCMSemployees, Wehaveputinplaceahiringfreezefornoninstructionalpersonnel,withonlyafewexceptions, thatiseffectiveimmediately.Theexceptionstothehiringfreezearepositionsfundedthrough grants,TitleI,AfterSchoolEnrichmentProgramandChildNutritionEnterpriseFunding. Althoughthesearetheearlydaysinthebudgetprocess,webelievethatthisactionisneeded.It willhelpusplanforthe20102011budget.Itcouldalsohelpuswiththisyearsbudgetifwe havestateorcountyreversions,aswedidlastyear. AsIsaidintheemailtoyouonJan.25,wearegettingsomeearlyindicatorsthatmoneywillbe tightatbothstateandlocallevelsthisyear,withreductionsinfundingpossibleforboth.State officialshavesaidthatsalestaxcollectionsandwithholdingonwagesandsalariesarefalling belowtheirexpectations.Itislikelythatcontinuedweaknessintheeconomycouldaffectstate revenuecollectionsinthesecondhalfoftheyear. Puttingahiringfreezeinplacenowisaproactivemovethatwehopewillhelpuslateron,when wemayhavetomakedeepcuts.Itstooearlytoknowifwellhavetodothatbutitspretty clearnowthatwerenotlikelytogetabigincrease.Aswedidlastyear,wewanttokeepany cutsasfarfromtheclassroomaspossibleandthatswhyweveputafreezeonnon instructionalpersonnelfornow. Wellcontinuetosharebudgetdevelopmentswithyouastheyoccur. Pete

PeterC.Gorman Superintendent 701EastMLK,Jr.Boulevard Charlotte,NC28202 Phone:9803436270

February 5, 2010

From the Superintendent

As we work on this years budget, a lot of questions will come up about how we make decisions on hiring, retention and dismissal. Some of these questions are related to actions that we took last year when we made the budget cuts and reduction in force. Others are questions related to our 2014 strategic goals for teacher effectiveness and pay for performance. We will answer your questions as fully as we can. Why the caveat there? Because we wont have complete answers in some cases. We dont have a lot of information yet about our funding this year. In other cases, we are developing changes based on data, research or studies that are in process but not complete. Weve received a lot of questions already about the pay-for-performance initiative for teachers. Thats good we want as much input as possible into the best way to encourage increased student achievement. The most important school-based factor in student learning is the classroom teacher, and we want to find and retain and reward the most effective teachers. Finding the best way to compensate teachers is going to take some time. Pay for performance will not be part of next years budget, because we expect it will take us at least two years to build the right structure. So next years budget thats 2010-2011 will not reflect the new pay-for-performance structure were working on now. It will reflect whatever funding realities and limitations we get from the state and the county. We have had early indications that money will be tight in both places, and well share more specific information with you as it becomes available. Well also answer your questions with whatever information is available, and todays Budget Bulletin provides answers to some pay-for-performance questions weve received thus far. Pete

See next page for Q & A section

Page 2

Q: How would you retain teachers at FOCUS schools if they have to be judged on student performance? A: We know that not all students come to school with the same level of preparation. Effective teaching doesnt necessarily mean that every student passes the state tests it also is linked to how much each student grows academically every year. So well be looking not only at end-of-year results were going to look at growth. How much did a student learn during the year? Growth is a key factor in assessing teacher effectiveness. Using growth allows us to factor in where a student began the year as well as where the student ended and that will take into account students in all schools. Q: What is the timeline for implementing pay for performance? A: We hope to have a pay-for-performance plan developed within two years. It may take longer. One reason is that we want to use data gathered from the nearly 500 CMS teachers who are taking part in the Measuring Effective Teaching national study. Another reason is that we want to use data from the Teaching Incentive Fund-Leadership for Educators Advanced Development work that is in progress now at CMS. We also want input from all stakeholders, including teachers, parents, the community and others. We also need to continue our work in gathering accurate data about students and schools. Q: Is the district still going to hold meetings so employees can ask questions about pay for performance or to provide input about this process? A: Yes, we will have employee meetings as well as opportunities for all stakeholders to provide input. We want to hear from teachers, parents, the public and others and we will arrange focus groups, community meetings and other such events to be sure we get this input. Research and data are important parts of the process, but there is no substitute for the perspective and experience of people who are teachers, parents and community members. Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. Remember to keep sending questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

DearCMSemployees: Wevebeengettingalotofquestionsfromemployeesaboutpayforperformanceandnext yearsbudget.Someofthesequestionsarerelatedtoactionsthatwetooklastyearwhenwe madethebudgetcutsandreductioninforce.Othersarequestionsrelatedtoour2014strategic goalsforteachereffectivenessandpayforperformance. Wewillansweryourquestionsasfullyaswecan.Butwearentgoingtohavecompleteanswers everytime.Ourfundingforthecomingyearremainsuncertain,althoughasIsaidlastweek,its notlookingliketheeconomictroubleisover.Soweexpectmoneytobetightagainthisyear. Butwerenotgoingtousepayforperformanceinbuildingthe20102011budget.Whynot? Becauseitsgoingtotakeusacoupleofyearstocreatetherightstructureforpayfor performance.Wewantacompensationstructurethatisfairtoteachersandthatwillhelpus increasestudentachievement.Weneedtogatherdata,researchandinputfromouremployees beforewedecideonhowtolaunchpayforperformance.Wewanttogetthisrightandwell takethetimerequiredtodothat. Weregoingtobeseekingyourinputthroughoutthisprocessaswell.Wewillbegatheringyour ideasandyouropinionsaboutthebestwaytopayteachers.Theresnosubstituteforreal,in theclassroomexperienceandwewantyourexpertiseandyourhelpincreatingapayfor performancestructure. Inthemeantime,wellalsoansweryourquestionswithwhateverinformationisavailable. Pete

DearCMSemployees: Wehavereceivedwordfromthecountythatitisfacinga$10millionshortfallinthisyears budget(20092010).Thegoodnews,relativelyspeaking,isthattheshortfallthisyearisnotas largeasitwaslastyear,whenitgrewto$50million. AccordingtoCountyManagerHarryJonesandManagementandBudgetDirectorHyongYi,this shortfallarisesprimarilyfromtwothings:$3.7millionforAreaMentalHealthtooffsetstate fundingreductions;andnearly$4millionshortfallprojectedincodeenforcementrevenue. Thecountyhasaskeditsdepartment/agencydirectorsfortheirrecommendationsonhowto makethesereductions,andcountybudgetpersonnelwillalsotalktousaboutoptionstohelp resolvethisproblem.Itstooearlytoknowwhatthecountyislikelytorequestfromus.Last year,whenthecountywasfacingasimilarshortfall,itaskedfora$5millionreversionoffunds inotherwords,thecountygaveus$5millionlessthanpromised. Soitspossiblethatwecouldreceivelessmoneyfromthecountyinthisyearsbudgetthan expected.Asyoumayrecall,wetookthebiggesthitincountyfundinginthestateforthisyears budget:$34million,morethan10timesthenextlargestcountycut(inWakefor$3million).So ourbudgetisleannow,anditmaygetevenleanerifthecountyasksustohelpmakeupthe shortfall. Mr.Yihasindicatedthatheandcountybudgetofficialsplantofinalizethereductionstheyneed bytheendofthismonth.Wewillshareinformationwithyouaswelearnmorefromthecounty abouthowitplanstomakeupthis$10millionshortfall.Thecitizensofthiscommunityhave indicatedinavarietyofwaysthateducationisatoppriority,andIhopeitwillcontinuetobe. Pete

February 18, 2010

Q: What is the budget forecast for this coming year? A: The revenue forecast is bleak. Revenues are down in Mecklenburg County and at the state level. These are our two main funding sources, so were looking at substantial cuts in the 2010-2011 budget. Click here for this discussion from the budget worksession. Possible state and local cuts County: The county has indicated that flat funding is possible. Weve also been asked to anticipate a three percent or five percent reduction in county funds. We could be asked to cut as much as $15.9 million from the county this year on top of a $34 million cut last year. These figures dont include the costs of growth, sustaining operations and opening new schools all of which we had to absorb last year by making reductions to other areas. Well have to absorb those costs this year, too, if we are flat funded or get a reduction. State: We dont have any specific information from the state yet, but revenues arent encouraging there either. We have created scenarios that mirror the county scenarios, with three percent or five percent reductions. A five percent reduction in state funds would be $31.8 million. With the state discretionary cut, new initiatives and our growth, sustaining operations and opening new schools, we could be looking at $82.5 million in total reductions if both state and county end up at the five percent mark. Q: What are the potential reductions being discussed? A: Click here to watch the discussion of potential reductions from the budget worksession. You can also view the following documents: Potential budget reductions by scenario Potential cuts broken down central office, support staff and schools Q: Why is growth a budget factor if we arent growing like we had been? A: We are not experiencing the same kind of student-enrollment increases we saw as recently as three years ago, but we are still dealing with overcrowding. Also, we will have more students next year than we have this year. We plan to open two new high schools next year and, without new money to cover these costs, the funds will have to come from something else already in place. Q: What does sustaining operations mean and why are these added expenses? A: Things such as utility costs, benefits costs and fuel costs are part of sustaining operations. All of these prices can, and usually do, increase from year to year. That means were paying more for the same things. Click here for this discussion from the budget worksession. Q: How is the money in this years budget being spent? A: You can view the 2009-2010 budget here. Also, a detailed breakdown can be found here. Click here for a breakdown of school level and central office spending.

Page 2

Q: How much has CMS had to cut in the past few years? A: Since 2006-07, more than $161.3 million in reductions and redirections have been made in the CMS budget. Click here for a more detailed list. Q: What is the board policy on a reduction in force? A: Click here for information on the Board of Education policy on a reduction in force. Q: What does this mean for the general transfer fair? A: We have canceled the general transfer fair. Q: What is the teacher evaluation process? A: Click here for information on the teacher evaluation process. Also, click here to watch a clip on this topic from the budget worksession. Q: When will non-renewed teachers be informed that they may be cut? A: Written notice shall be provided to a non-career teacher of the superintendents intent to recommend non-renewal and the teachers rights no later than May 15. Letters will be mailed and hand-delivered to non-renewed teachers with either career or non-career status advising them of non-renewal by June 15. The Board must notify a non-career teacher whose contract will not be renewed for the next school year of its decision by this date. Q: Arent there cuts that can be made that will not impact students? A: At this point, weve cut so much that further cuts will impact students. Click here to watch Dr. Gorman elaborate on this point. Also, click here to watch a clip about this from the budget worksession. Q: What happens to teachers with licensure deficiencies? A: The following notifications and processes have been provided to staff whose licenses will expire June 30, 2010: Licensure deficiency notices will be sent via e-mail in February, March and April, according to the specific deficiency. School visits are scheduled after February deficiency notices; standard procedure will be followed by licensure case managers (LCM). Principals will be asked to schedule appointments with individuals who received a licensure deficiency notice. The principal or principals designee will meet with the LCM after the visit for an update of each individuals plan to clear his/her deficiency. Q: Will middle school sports be cut this year? A: The Board of education has indicated that everything is on the table in this budget season. Click here for a video about this topic from the Feb. 17 budget worksession.

Q: What is the timeline for cuts and informing staff about the reduction in force?

Page 3

A: Click here for a video discussing the timeline. You can access information on the core of budget development process here. Q: Can more cuts be made to transportation - like for magnet schools - to save money? A: As with other areas, the board indicated that this was on the table. Click here to watch the discussion from the budget worksession. Q: How can I get more information? A: You can continue to e-mail questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us. Also, you can invite central office staff to speak with your faculty or department about the budget. Send an e-mail to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline and include the potential times and dates of meetings. Someone will follow up with you to schedule a time and date.

CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG BOARD OF EDUCATION

REVISED
Location
Board Room

BUDGET CALENDAR FY 2010-2011

Date
November 16-17 December 7-10 December 11 December 18 January 4-8 January 12 January 14-29 January 25 January 25 4:00 pm-6:00 pm February 8 February 9 February 17 2:00 pm-5:00 pm March 16 2:00 pm-4:30 pm March 23 2:00 pm-4:00 pm March 30 3:00 pm-5:00 pm *April 12 *April 13 6:00 pm *April 27 6:00 pm *April 27 6:00 pm *May 11 6:00 pm May 14 May TBD May TBD May TBD June TBD

Activity
Kickoff: Meetings with Department Heads to review budget process and deliver packets Departments meet with Executive Staff to review budgets and identify reduction opportunities Executive Staff submits final budget recommendations to the Budget Department Professional Organizations present budget requests to Budget Committee/Requests forwarded to Board of Education Executive Staff budget work sessions with Budget Staff to discuss priority recommendations Board of Education Budget Preview Executive Staff budget work sessions with Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer to discuss priority recommendations Board of Education receives Draft of Budget Calendar for 2010-11 Budget work session scheduled for the Board of Education Budget Message and Superintendents budget recommendations due in Budget department in order to compile budget document Board of Education approves Budget Calendar for 2010-11 Budget work session scheduled for the Board of Education Budget work session scheduled for the Board of Education Budget work session scheduled for the Board of Education Budget work session scheduled for the Board of Education Presentation of Superintendents Budget Recommendations to Executive Staff Formal budget presentation made to Board of Education by Superintendent at regularly scheduled board meeting Public Hearing on the FY 2010-11 Operating Budget Budget work session scheduled for the Board of Education FY 2010-11 Board of Educations Budget Request of the County Commissioners approved at Board of Education meeting FY 2010-11 Board of Educations Budget Request delivered to County Manager County Managers Recommended Operating and Capital Budgets presented to Board of County Commissioners Public hearing on Board of County Commissioners 2010-11 Budget Board of County Commissioners 2010-11 Budget Workshop for CMS and CPCC FY 2010-11 County Operating Budget and 3-year CIP adopted at regular meeting of Board of County Commissioners

Finance Conf. Room TBD BOE Meeting COOs Office Board Room Budget Office BOE Meeting Board Room Board Room Board Room Board Room TBD Government Center BOE Meeting BOE Meeting BOE Meeting Government Center Government Center Government Center Government Center Government Center

* Items in red have been changed from the approved version.

February 25, 2010

From the Superintendent

We know this is not going to be an easy budget year. So weve decided to bring our budget recommendation to the Board at the first meeting in April, instead of the first meeting in March. That will allow us to have three budget work sessions with our Board in March, and I think that will be helpful. Those will take place on March 16, March 23 and March 30. Then well bring a budget recommendation to the Board at the April 13 meeting. To see the complete budget calendar, click here.
Pete

See next page for Q & A section

Page 3 Page 2

Q: Why cant CMS have a four-day work week to save money? School days could be lengthened to make up the time. A: The CMS school calendar is largely controlled by the state. The state legislature sets the earliest day on which schools return, which is currently Aug. 25. The state also requires a certain number of school days (180) and contact hours to satisfy the requirements for a full school year. There is another factor, as well: state testing. The state Department of Public Instruction sets the testing calendar each year. If we were to go to four-day school weeks, we would have to add a week of school to each calendar month to achieve the same number of school days. The state would have to approve this alternative calendar. Four long school days with one weekday off could also create a hardship for families who rely on childcare. Q: Why is CMS looking at increasing class sizes to save money? Arent some classes too big already? A: Jonathan Travers with Education Resource Strategies presented research that shows that small, incremental class size increases do not harm instruction. The research also shows that a highly effective teacher has a greater impact on student learning than smaller class size does. This information is guiding CMS as it looks at budget priorities. We want to use our money to improve student achievement, and so we want to shield classrooms from cuts as much as we can. It is also true that, because of additional resources allocated to students who are economically disadvantaged, some schools have larger classes than others. However, even if class sizes were increased, no classes would be larger than the state allows. Q: Why cant CMS cut graduation costs by having the commencements at the schools? A: CMS has been given very favorable rates at the commencement venues. These rates include cost of parking, custodial services, utilities and other labor costs that would have to be borne solely by CMS if schools were used. Also, graduations have customarily been held while schools are still in session. We do not want to disrupt the learning environment of the other three grades at our high schools. A third factor is that not all schools have enough parking, seating and other space for graduation, which could restrict the number of family members who participate in graduations. Q: Will more cuts mean teachers dont get ABC bonuses again? A: We dont know. The state awards ABC bonuses to teachers whose students do well on End-ofGrade or End-of-Course exams. The district does not make this decision. For the 2009-2010 year, the state decided not to pay those bonuses because of budget shortfalls. Q: Will teachers receive step increases this year, since they did not in the 2009-2010 budget? A: The state decided not to give the step increase in 2009-2010 and the state will determine whether or not it is given for 2010-2011. We will keep you posted on the state's discussion and any changes.

Page 3

Q: Are the retirees that have been hired in an administrative capacity getting paid their retirement and all retirement benefits on top of the salary that they are paid as a rehire? A: If a retiree is hired as an interim to a position, they are allowed to continue to receive their state retirement pay plus what CMS pays them as an interim employee. They do not have benefits and the employment time is limited to a maximum of six months. They are also hired as an interim at a lower pay rate than they earned when they retired. Q: Is CMS paying for the services of benefits counselors and the $25 gift card to restaurants.com given to employees if they enroll with a counselor during this year's annual enrollment? A: No. These services, provided by Univers, are paid for by Gallagher Benefit Services and Pierce Group Benefits. These companies are also paying for the annual enrollment posters and other communication tools being used by the district to help promote annual enrollment this year.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember, you can also send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

DearCMSemployees, Wehavemadesomechangesinthebudgetcalendar.ThesewerediscussedattheBoard meetingFeb.23. Wehavechangedthedatesforbringingourbudgetforwardtogiveusmoretime.AsIve indicatedtoyouinearlieremails,thisisnotgoingtobeaneasybudgetyear.Sowevedecided tobringourbudgetrecommendationtotheBoardatthefirstmeetinginApril,insteadofthe firstmeetinginMarch. ThatwillallowustohavethreebudgetworksessionswithourBoardinMarch,andIthinkthat willbehelpful.ThosewilltakeplaceonMarch16,March23andMarch30.Thenwellbringa budgetrecommendationtotheBoardattheApril13meeting. Toseethecompletebudgetcalendar,clickhere.Wellcontinuetosharebudgetnewsasit becomesavailable. Pete

March 12, 2010

From the Superintendent

On March 16, the Board will have a budget work session. At this meeting, I will bring forward some specific recommendations for reductions. We are continuing to plan for the worst and hope for the best in our budget work, so I will bring the Board recommendations for a total of $65 million in cuts and reductions. We hope that we wont have to make such deep cuts, because they are going to be difficult and theyre going to be felt in our classrooms. But if we do have to make them, we believe its better to plan carefully and deliberately, rather than react to events at the last minute. All indications at the state and county level are that its going to be a tough year financially and its our responsibility to plan ahead as effectively as we can. Pete See next page for Q & A section

Page 2

Q: Are the budget worksessions public? A: Yes, the budget workseesions are public meetings. The next worksession will be held on Tuesday, March 16, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. in the Education Center Board Room. CMS TV will be recording the worksession and will broadcast it the next day and make it available for viewing on the CMS Web site. Q: How much of a budget cut did CMS get from the county for the current year? A: The county funding was reduced by approximately $34 million which was by far the largest local cut of any school district across the state. (The next largest cut was made in Wake, which lost $3 million.) It's important to remember the context of this funding reduction, too: In order to cover the costs of enrollment growth and opening six new schools as well as program expansions and new initiatives. CMS had to redirect and reallocate the funds we did get. Q: If theres no money, can CMS use textbooks from this year and not order new ones? A: CMS will not purchase new text books for next year. Q: Why is CMS cutting vocational classes? A: CMS is not specifically cutting vocational classes. Instead, we are looking at our consistently low enrollment classes and exploring alternative ways to offer them (ex. the NC Virtual High School or videoconferencing). Q: Can CMS stop paying for the AP and IB exams? How much would that save? A: There is $1,085,511 in the 2009-10 budget for Advanced Placement exams and $246,337 for IB exams. CMS is not required to pay for these exams. Q: Will CMS go back to summer hours (4 10-hour days per week) once the school year ends? A: Yes, CMS will return to a four-day work week for the summer. This was done last year to save on utilities and other costs. Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember to send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

Dear CMS employees: This afternoon, we held a budget work session with our Board. As weve indicated to you in earlier emails, the budget picture is pretty bleak for 20102011. We showed our Board a series of scenarios with cuts ranging from $11 million to $80 million a range of scenarios from best case to worst case. I know that theres a lot of concern about another reduction in force. I think it is likely. How big it will be depends on how much funding we get from the state and the county and we still dont know those numbers. The scenarios that we showed the Board today included a range of reductions in our employees from about 61 in Scenario 1 (the most optimistic one, with only $11.3 million in cuts) to more than 800 in Scenario 5, which has about $62.4 million in cuts. If we are forced to reduce even further by making $80 million in cuts, we would have to lose at least 600 teaching positions; the rest of the reduction in force would come elsewhere in the district work force, including central office and support positions. And let me emphasize: We will cut non-classroom positions first, as we did last year, to keep as many of these cuts away from the classroom as we can. But we cant cut $80 million and completely spare our classrooms, particularly on top of the deep cuts we made for this years budget. We will feel these cuts in our schools. We dont have precise numbers yet on our funding for either state or county. But we have some indicators that suggest were not likely to see the best-case scenario for this budget. In talks this week, County Manager Harry Jones indicated that we could be looking at a 6.5 percent reduction in county funding for next year thats a reduction of $19.7 million in our operating budget and $1 million in our capital replacement budget. Moreover, he indicated that a were likely to be asked to provide a reversion of $6.3 million for the current budget year which would mean that, in all, we took a $40.3 million hit in county funding in 2009-2010. The state budget news isnt promising, either. Theres a $35 million shortfall in state revenues. North Carolina is closer to the budget revenue target than expected because of a one-time tax collection from corporate taxpayers. The last quarter of the fiscal year is also the hardest to predict, with the greatest risk. Sheila Shirley, our chief financial officer, is wary that that one-time collection might be masking a bigger shortfall in state revenue, and I share her concern. Well know more as the end of the fiscal year (June 30) approaches.

So our Board is asking us to consider anything and everything. Board members dont like the idea of raising student-teacher ratios, cutting teachers or delaying school openings and they want to look at a variety of options. These include an across-the-board pay cut for all CMS employees so we could avoid layoffs, considering school closures, major changes to magnet-school transportation and furloughs. Some of these are options we could do in the district. Some of them would require state permission or legislation. But Eric Davis, our Board chair, summed it up neatly: Flexibility is what we need. We are all going to have to be very flexible in the weeks and months ahead as we continue to wrestle with difficult economic conditions. I urge all of you to stay focused on our most important job, educating children well, and not let these issues get in the way. We will continue to share information with you as we learn more about our funding picture. Pete

March 19, 2010

Click here to view a budget PowerPoint presentation from the March 16 budget work session. Q: What does the county budget forecast look like and what have county officials said about funding for CMS next year? A: This week, County Manager Harry Jones told Dr. Gorman that CMS could face a 6.5 percent reduction in county funding for next year. This cut equates to $19.7 million in the CMS operating budget and $1 million in the capital replacement budget. CMS may also be asked to give back $6.3 million in the current budget year. This is called a reversion of funds. That will bring the districts total local cut this year to $40.3 million more than 10 times the next highest local cut, which was Wake County Schools. Wake received a $3 million cut. Q: Whats the status of state funding? Has the state given any indication about things such as longevity pay and ABC bonuses? A: The legislature doesnt meet until May. Here are two things we know now: 1. Theres a $35 million shortfall in state revenues thus far for this fiscal year, which ends June 30. 2. North Carolina is closer to the budget revenue target than expected because of a one-time tax collection from corporate taxpayers. The last quarter of the fiscal year is hardest to predict and presents the greatest risk. Were concerned that the one-time collection may be masking a bigger shortfall in state revenue. Until we get closer to the end of the fiscal year, we wont know. And, until the legislature approves a budget, we wont know whether they will give ABC bonuses or freeze longevity pay. Q: Im upset that CMS keeps getting cut. What can I do to tell my elected officials how I feel? A: As a private citizen, you have the right to express your views. As a CMS employee, heres what you need to know about political activity: According to Board Policy GBI, employees may campaign for candidates or issues, run for public office or serve as a public appointee, committee member or officer, except as prohibited by law. A school employee who discusses and/or engages in political activities or issues, however, shall make it clear that his or her actions are conducted as an individual and in no manner represent the views of the district. The policy also specifies that employees may not: 1. Encourage, support or coerce students or employees of the school district to support or reject in any way a political party, candidate or issue during work hours or while conducting official Board business, or 2. Use their supervisory or other relationship as a Board employee with students or employees of the district in order to encourage, support or coerce such individuals to support or reject in any way a political party, candidate or issue In general, employees may not engage in political activity during work hours or using district money or materials. Q: What are other districts doing to save money? A: In the March 16 Board work session, Dr. Gorman discussed a few things districts across the country are considering and/or enacting, including:

Page 3 2

Combining and consolidating programs and schools where possible Maximizing student walk zones Four-day work weeks (About 200 districts out of the 15,000 are looking at this.) Cutting arts programs One of the areas considered most frequently across the country is increased class sizes. Click here for some findings the superintendent pointed out at the budget work session. Q: How flexible is the school district calendar? Can we do a four-day work week or have a furlough day? A: Right now, the state gives CMS little flexibility with our calendar. The state legislature would need to give CMS flexibility to enact changes such as a year-round four-day work week. The Board discussed this briefly at the work session. View the discussion here. Furloughs require a governors executive order to enact and execute. Q: What are the new initiatives we are including in the budget? A: The cost of program expansion and new initiatives is $3.8 million. This includes items such as: Adding Strategic Staffing in six more schools Expanding magnet programs at schools such as Sedgefield Middle and Collinswood A pilot credit-recovery program aimed at increasing the graduation rate An upgrade to the high school registrar position Expanding formative assessments Summative assessments for all subjects and grade levels that are non-EOG or EOC You can learn more about these and other new initiatives by clicking here. Q: Have the scenarios been updated? Whats included in each? A: As with the tiers last year, the scenarios outlined by staff to the Board of Education on March 16 are based on budget projections. The scenarios presented to the Board on Tuesday included a range of reductions in employees from about 61 in Scenario 1 (the most optimistic one, with only $11.3 million in cuts) to more than 800 in Scenario 5, which has about $62.4 million in cuts. A sixth scenario would address $80 million in cuts, but details are still being finished. Click here for details about the scenarios. Q: What has the Board said about cuts to middle school sports? A: At the recent Board work session, Board members said they are still looking at finding ways to keep middle school athletics by using gate receipts, outside funding and reducing the number of sports offered. The current Scenario 3 eliminates all middle school sports. You can view that budget discussion by clicking here. Q: Is the Board considering reducing salaries to save money and preserve jobs? A: The Board discussed this at its March 16 work session. Board member Richard McElrath discussed what he called a shared sacrifice, which would be a salary reduction to offset some layoffs. His idea included: An eight percent cut for those making $48,000-$69,999 A 12 percent cut for those making $70,000-$99,999

Page 3

A 15 percent cut for those making $100,000 or more These cuts would generate approximately $30 million, based on the December 2009 payrolls. The cuts would not be a one-time reduction, but would reduce salary scales to these lower levels. There would be some challenges to a reduction, including whether it would constitute a demotion, which could be subject to due process hearings, or how such a salary reduction would affect retirement for employees who are close to retiring. More research and discussion is planned. You can view that entire discussion by clicking here. Q: Several career and technical education positions are listed in the scenarios. How much are we cutting CTE? A: The CTE reductions outlined in Scenario 3 are based on allotments and school enrollment. Course registration and enrollment would determine these reductions. View this reduction discussion here.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subject line. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember, you can also send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

DearCMSemployees, TonightweaskedourBoardtoapprovecriteriaforareductioninforce.Thisdoesnot meanthatwemustreducethenumberofouremployeesbutitdoesmeanthatwe havetheflexibilitytoreduceournumberifnecessary. Itwillnotsurpriseyou,ifyouvebeenfollowingthenews,tolearnthatitisverylikely thatwewillhavetoreducethenumberofouremployeesagainthisyear.Howmuch, andwhen,arenotyetclear.Butwehavebeengivenseveralindicationsbythecounty andthestatethatmoneywillbeverytightandreductionsareprobable. Asafirststepinmakingreductions,wealsohavenotifiedourassistantprincipalsthat wearemovingthemfrom11monthemployeesto10monthemployees.Thiswillsave moneybecausetheirsalarieswillbereducedtoreflectlesswork. AsBoardChairEricDavissaidtonight,noneofthesethingsaregoodoptions.Butweare goingtohavemakecutstotalingmillionsofdollarsthisyear,ontopofmillionscutlast yearandweregoingtofeeltheimpactofthosecuts.Sowillourstudents. ThebudgetprocesswillcontinuenextweekwhenweagainmeetwiththefullBoardto discusshowandwheretomakecuts,andwellcontinuetoshareinformationwithyou asdevelopmentsoccur. Pete

Dear CMS staff,

Last night, our Board approved the criteria for a reduction in force. Any reduction in force is likely to fall most heavily on our teachers -- not because we want it to, but because so much of our budget is spent at the school level. After last year's millions in cuts, we will have to make millions more this year. It is probable that a reduction in force will be required.

We don't know for sure, and we won't until we have final budget numbers from the state and the county. That won't happen for several weeks. In the meantime, the prospect of a reduction in force has created anxiety and that's understandable. We can't erase that anxiety. But we do want the process we use in our budget cuts to be as fair and as transparent as possible. So I am sending each of you the document that sets out the criteria for our possible reduction in force.

Again, I want to emphasize that we don't know for certain that this will be necessary. It does seem likely, if the preliminary budget numbers from the state and county are accurate. The months ahead will not be easy ones for anyone in CMS. I hope that having an accurate and complete picture of how we will reduce our employees, if we must do that, will help minimize the anxiety about this process. As always, we will make these difficult decisions as carefully and as fairly as we can, and work to preserve the dignity of all of our employees.

The Board, executive staff and I wish that the financial realities of our funding were not so painful. We will work to make whatever reductions are necessary in a way that minimizes the impact on our schools and on our students.

Pete

Peter C. Gorman Superintendent 701 East MLK, Jr. Boulevard Charlotte, NC 28202

March 26, 2010

To view the Reduction in Force criteria sent to you earlier this week, click here. The next Board of Education budget work session is scheduled for Tuesday, March 30, at 3 p.m. in the Education Center Board Room.
Q: Can CMS shorten the work year for some employees (ex. 12-month to 11-month) to save money? A: Yes, CMS can shorten the work year for some employees. If the employee is a career employee, it may be considered a demotion. At its March 23 meeting, the Board of Education approved criteria that included making all assistant principals go from 11-month employees to 10-month employees, with an applicable work and salary reduction. Q: Another school district is looking at putting advertising on school buses as a way to make money. Can CMS do this? A: CMS is not currently considering this idea. The district is prohibited from putting ads on yellow buses. Q: Is CMS planning to cut instructional assistants? A: CMS is not looking at cutting any assistant positions. Some assistants were part of last years reduction in force. Q: Wouldnt it save CMS money to stop printing electronic deposit notifications for employees? A: CMS has identified an opportunity for cost savings through Lawson's Employee Self Service, where employees can see their paychecks online. Technology is in the process of installing the software and preparing for a pilot of this self-service center within the next few months. Q: Will CMS continue its tuition reimbursement program next year or is that being cut? A: If employees are in the program, they are covered. CMS is not accepting anyone new for the tuition reimbursement program. Q: Is CMS bringing in more Teach for America teachers next year? A: Yes, our current commitment is 150 new recruits for the coming school year.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subject line. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember to send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

This afternoon, Dr. Gorman will share the reorganization of the learning communities and Title I department with the Board of Education during its budget work session. This reorganization includes a reduction in the number of learning communities. The new organization for the 2010-2011 school year will include five zones. The Title I department will be reorganized to provide supplemental support to our Title I schools in alignment with the zones. The new zones and their superintendents are: Northeast: Scott Muri East: Joel Ritchie Southwest: Monique Gardner-Witherspoon Central Elementary: Tyler Ream Central Secondary: Curtis Carroll The Title I department will support the Central Elementary and Secondary zones. Metro and Morgan schools will continue to be supervised by Dr. Jane Rhyne, who will attend Central zone meetings. The Pre-K centers will be assigned to the Central Elementary Zone and will be supervised by Tyler Ream. The new organizational structure will become effective July 1, 2010. Principals should continue to work with their current area superintendents until June 30, 2010. This change means that each zone superintendent will have more schools to supervise. But it will also be an effective management structure for us, including how it will align our Title I department with the Central zones to use our human and financial resources more strategically. For the complete list of schools by zone, click here.

3/29/10

Scott Muri Northeast (37)

High School
Hopewell Hough Mallard Creek Military & Global Leadership at Marie G. Davis North Mecklenburg

Joel Ritchie East (30)

High School
Butler Cato Middle College East Mecklenburg Garinger (New Technology) Independence

Monique GardnerWitherspoon Southwest (40)

High School
Ardrey Kell Berry Harding Myers Park Olympic Community of Schools (5) Biotech, Health& Public Admin Intl Business & Comm. Studies Intl Studies & Global Econ Math, Eng., Tech. & Science Renaissance School South Mecklenburg West Mecklenburg HS

NWSA Vance West Charlotte

Rocky River Performance Learning Center Providence

Middle and Elementary

J.M Alexander Bailey MS Barnette ES Barringer ES Blythe ES Bradley MS Coulwood MS Cornelius ES David Cox ES Croft Community School Davidson ES Davidson IB MS First Ward Performing Arts ES Highland Creek ES Huntersville ES Long Creek ES Mallard Creek ES James Martin MS Morehead ES Mountain Island ES Piedmont MS Ridge Road MS River Oaks ES Stoney Creek ES Torrence Creek ES University Meadows ES Villa Heights ES Washam ES Winding Springs ES

Middle and Elementary

Bain ES Chantilly Montessori Clear Creek ES Crestdale MS Crown Point ES Elizabeth Lane ES Elizabeth Traditional ES Highland Mill Montessori ES Lansdowne ES Lebanon Road ES Matthews ES McAlpine ES McKee Road ES Mint Hill MS Myers Park Traditional ES Northeast MS Oakhurst ES Park Road Montessori ES Providence Spring ES Randolph IB MS Reedy Creek ES Robinson MS

Middle and Elementary

Ballantyne ES Berewick ES Beverly Woods ES Carmel MS Collinswood ES Community House MS Cotswold ES Dilworth ES Eastover ES Elon Park ES Endhaven ES A.G. Middle Hawk Ridge ES Kennedy MS Lake Wylie ES Oaklawn Language ES Olde Providence ES Pineville ES Polo Ridge ES Quail Hollow MS River Gate ES Selwyn ES Sharon ES Smith Academy Smithfield ES South Charlotte MS Southwest MS Steele Creek ES Winget Park ES

Tyler Ream Central-Elementary (44)

Elementary School
Albemarle Road ES Nathaniel Alexander ES Allenbrook ES Ashley Park ES Berryhill ES Billingsville ES Briarwood ES Bruns Avenue ES Walter G. Byers ES Devonshire ES Druid Hills ES Greenway Park ES Grier Academy ES J. H. Gunn ES Hickory Grove ES Hidden Valley ES Highland Renaissance ES Hornets Nest ES Huntingtowne Farms ES Idlewild ES Irwin Avenue ES Lincoln Heights ES Merry Oaks ES Montclaire ES Nations Ford ES Newell ES Oakdale ES Paw Creek ES Pawtuckett ES Pinewood ES Piney Grove ES Rama Road ES Reid Park ES Sedgefield ES Shamrock Gardens ES Statesville Road ES Sterling ES Thomasboro ES Tuckaseegee ES University Park Performing Arts ES Westerly Hills ES Whitewater ES Windsor Park ES Winterfield ES

Curtis Carroll Central-Secondary (20)

Middle School
Albemarle Road MS Cochrane MS Eastway MS Martin Luther King MS McClintock MS Northridge MS Ranson MS Sedgefield MS Spaugh MS Whitewater MS Wilson MS John Taylor Williams MS

High School
Hawthorne HS Leadership & Public Service at Garinger Math & Science at Garinger Business & Finance at Garinger International Studies at Garinger Midwood Turning Point Waddell HS

Tyer Ream (5)

Amay James PreK Double Oaks PreK Plaza Road PreK Starmount PreK Tryon Hills PreK

Jane Rhyne
Metro Morgan

Dear CMS employees, Our Board held a work session on the budget this afternoon. There were two major areas of discussion: We shared our plan to reorganize the learning communities for next year and we asked the Board for guidance on eight budget-cutting opportunities. Click here for the PowerPoint from today's meeting. A bit of context: We still do not have final budget numbers, but we have set a target amount for cuts based on information from the state and county about funding for next year: $73.6 million. This number includes an assumption and right now, thats all it is that our county cut will be 6.5 percent and our state reduction will be 4 percent. The reorganization of the learning communities will create five zones, instead of the current six geographic areas and the Achievement Zone, and this change was covered in an email earlier today sent to all staff, so I will not repeat that information here. We reviewed the most recent budget scenarios. As of now, we have identified $66.7 million in cuts, so we need to find another $6.9 million. We asked Board members to tell us whether they would support any of eight different cost-cutting measures. The only one of these measures staff is recommending at present is the furlough; the others are not staff recommendations. Briefly, those measures and the Boards guidance on them were: Cutting CMS-TV entirely. The Board asked for more information on this and directed staff to continue research on possible partnerships with the county and the city for a shared broadcast operation, as well as data about CMS TV viewership. Furlough. The Board directed us to pursue this aggressively with the North Carolina legislature, and we will ask our lobbyist to work on it as well. Delay opening of new high schools. The Board did not support this option. Add shuttle stops for elementary students who attend a magnet school. The Board did not support this option.

Closing schools. The Board did not support this option. Weighted student staffing. The Board did not support lowering the number used for weighted-student staffing, which determines teacher and resource allotment. Additional staff reductions. These would be accomplished by increasing the number of students per classroom, lowering the number of teachers and other staff needed. The Board did not support this option. Salary reductions. Our legal counsel, Andre Mayes, and our director of compensation and benefits, shared information with the Board about the issues linked to district-wide cuts. If the cuts are made for every employee, some of our employees fall below the state-required minimum wage and that number rises as the percentage of the cut increases. The Board did not support this option. We will continue to look at ways to reduce costs in the budget but as I told the Board today, the dollars are getting harder to find. This is a difficult week for the district as we begin the process of our reduction in force. We will keep you informed of developments as they occur. Pete

April 2, 2010

Q: What happened to the North Carolina Education Lottery funds? Where are they and how is CMS using them? A: The lottery proceeds designated for K-12 were primarily for two areas: 1. Permanent funding for the governors class size reduction initiative, which had been in place over the last several years reducing the states allotment for K-3 teacher positions to a ratio of 1:18. This initiative had already been funded in previous years, but the lottery funds provided a permanent funding source for this so in effect, we are still receiving the same number of teacher positions, but from the states perspective they are being paid for with a different revenue source. 2. Funding school construction the lottery funds to be used for this purpose are distributed to the county. The county elected to use those funds to pay for debt service related to school construction. Use of lottery proceeds to pay debt service on debt incurred since January 2003 is allowed. The lottery proceeds that flow to the county for school construction (which is being used for debt service) is considered a capital budget expense. These funds are not available for CMS operating budget. Q: Is CMS looking at eliminating academic facilitator positions to save teaching positions? A: No, this is not an option CMS is considering. Q: How will the learning communities be reorganized? A: Chief Academic Officer Ann Clark outlined the reorganization at the Board of Educations March 30 work session. The reorganization moves CMS from having six learning communities to five zones beginning July 1. For a list of the zones by school, click here. This change reduced the number of area staff from 55 to 35 people. The new zones will save $2.83 million dollars. For video of the budget discussion on the new zones, click here. Q: Is the Board going to cut CMS TV to save money? A: The Board discussed this issue at its work session, including how the cut would impact airing Board meetings, providing schools and departments with video assistance and informing the public. The Board decided to discuss collaboration efforts with county commissioners. To view the discussion on CMS TV, click here. Q: What is the status of furlough days as a cost-saving option? A: Dr. Gorman provided an overview on the costs savings of furlough days to the board at its work session. As stated previously, he told the Board that furlough is not an option for the district because the governor has to issue an executive order to execute one. The Board decided to put this item on its legislative agenda and to lobby local delegates so that the state may provide CMS the flexibility to do furloughs. Implementing two furlough days for 10-, 11- and 12-month employees would save the district about $5.7 million. To view that discussion, click here. Q: I saw a news report saying CMS is looking at closing some schools next year to help with the budget shortfall. Is this true?

Page 2

A: No. No school closures have been recommended for this coming school year. Dr. Gorman recommended looking at this for no earlier than the 2011-2012 school year. He provided an overview on the school closure and consolidation process at the work session. The Board decided to move forward with looking at school closures as a future cost savings. This would include studies and community meetings before any recommendations and decisions are made. To view that discussion, click here. Q: What has the Board said about salary reductions? A: Legal counsel told the Board that CMS can reduce salaries but there are legal implications. They looked at across-the-board salary reductions of one, two and 10 percent. Not all employees could be included in even a one percent cut because some salaries would then fall below the state required minimum wage. To view the entire discussion click here.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember, you can also send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

Dear CMS employees, Last night we presented our recommended 2010-2011 operating budget to the Board of Education at the April 13 meeting. Our recommended operating budget, which totals $1.16 billion, includes $16.6 million in reductions and redirections, as well as a requested increase of $15.5 million in funding from Mecklenburg County to cover sustaining operations, student growth and opening of two new high schools. Our proposed operating budget represents an increase over the 2009-2010 budget of 1.45 percent, or $16.6 million. Sheila Shirley, our chief financial officer, included scenarios showing how the district would make cuts to accommodate up to 6.5 percent in county funding and 4 percent in state funding. As I told the Board, there are no easy cuts left. These are difficult ones. The six scenarios show a series of incremental cuts totaling $78.3 million. To get to that amount of reduction, we will have to lay off more than 1,000 employees and increase class sizes at elementary, middle and high schools. There will also be a change in how teacher assistants are allotted in kindergarten, first and second grades, increasing the number of students per teacher assistant. Last nights presentation is part of the budget process that will stretch into early summer. As you know, we wont get state funding numbers until after the budget year starts on July 1. In the meantime, the Board of Education will vote on a final budget proposal at its May 11 meeting, and Board Chairman Eric Davis, Sheila Shirley and I will present the Boards proposed budget to the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners on May 25. The commissioners will hold a public hearing on the county budget May 27 and vote on a final county budget June 15. To see the budget presentation, click here. Pete

April 16, 2010

Q: What happens to VIF teachers in next years budget? A: VIF teachers are treated like any other teachers. Q: Will non-instructional positions be affected by this years reduction in force? A: There are recommendations to reduce the number of central-office personnel as well as psychologists and other support positions. The final number of instructional and non-instructional positions cut will be determined by the amount CMS receives from state and local funding. Q: What does Parent University cost? A: The operating dollars for Parent University are supported by outside funders. Since Parent University was established in August, 2008 as part of Strategic Plan 2010, funds totaling $844,500 have been raised by Mecklenburg Citizens for Public Education as well as other grants and donations secured by the district. Program expenses have totaled $504,000. These funds support online registration costs, computer software for video streaming, translation of materials and Spanish interpreters at classes, printing of catalogs, advertising of the program, as well as refreshments and incentives for families attending workshops. Since Parent University was developed, more than 27,000 participants have attended workshops, events, and activities. More than 200 volunteers provide support to the program as workshop instructors and committee members. Q: Why did CMS get cut so much more than other North Carolina districts? A: Many other districts received flat funding from their counties last year or much smaller cuts than CMS did. CMS received a $40 million dollar cut from the county for the current year. Guilford County received flat funding and Wake received a $2.8 million cut. For a more in-depth discussion on this, you can view Sheila Shirley discussing the matter at the last budget work session by clicking here. Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember to send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

April 23, 2010

Q: Why is CMS hiring more Teach for America teachers when doing a reduction in force? A: Despite having to make difficult reductions, CMS will still have staffing needs in certain subject areas and schools. Teach For America is providing a vital pipeline of educators for many CMS students who are most in need. The pipeline of talent that Teach For America provides is a critical component of CMS' work to close the achievement gap here in Charlotte. Q: How does the governors proposed budget affect CMS? Will we still have to make cuts? A: The governors proposed budget is a proposal and is subject to change. The legislature must also approve the budget before it is finalized and there will probably be many changes made before that happens. CMS is concerned about the lack of flexibility included in the governors proposal. Q: Now that learning communities are consolidating into zones, what will happen to the buildings that housed them? Didnt CMS have leases through 2012? A: CMS does have leases on those properties. We are looking at options, including subleasing the space, identifying city or county agencies or organizations that may be willing to assume the leases and negotiating with landlords. Q: Why not shut down some under-used schools? A: This is an option that we considered during this years budget process, and we will consider it again when we begin work on the 2011-2012 budget. It was deferred because closing and/or consolidating schools is a complex process, not merely a matter of capacity, and our Board wanted to review this issue comprehensively and carefully. We also want to consider facility condition as part of this discussion. Closing a school also requires looking at that schools academic programs and its achievement record as well. We also must find room for the students from the school we are closing in our remaining schools. However, we do have some empty classrooms and we need to review our capital program, which builds and renovates schools. Those facts, together with our current budget challenges, will require us to review the basis and the details of our entire facility plan. We will do that before the start of the 2011-2012 school year. This process would take us at least a year to complete. Q: Why not require students to pay a fee to ride the school bus? A: This is permitted under law; CMS can charge most students, although we are required to provide transportation for some categories of students. However, we think charging students to ride the bus would be a bad idea. First, it could have the unintended effect of making it harder for some children to attend school, if their families do not have the money to pay the fee. In addition, it would put CMS in the position of a collection agency with no leverage for enforcement if parents did not pay the fees. If parents dont pay, what options does the district have? We cant

April 23, 2010

Page 2

leave children at a bus stop that would be irresponsible. We think this would be ineffective, costly and risky. We do not want to deprive children of access to school if parents dont pay the fees. The comparison that has been made is that its similar to charging for participation in sports. But that comparison isnt valid. Sports are optional. School is not.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subject line. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember to send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

April 30, 2010

Q: How can CMS pay teachers $100 per day to attend the week of professional development from June 21-24? A: The Summer Teacher Conference is funded by Title II grant funds, not local or state funds. The stipend amount is approved by compensation. Q: Could you clarify what is being proposed for teacher assistants next year? A: The superintendent has proposed a change to the teacher assistant formula for kindergarten from one teacher assistant for every 25 students (1:25) to one TA for every 31 students (1:31). There would also be a change in the teacher assistant formula for grades 1 and 2 from one teacher assistant for every 38 students (1:38) to one TA for every 44 students (1:44). These changes to the staffing formula would amount to a net reduction of $4.77 million and reduce the number of teacher assistant positions by 164. The budget proposal also calls for reducing teacher assistants hours from a 40-hour workweek to a 37.5-hour workweek. This reduction would save $1.68 million. Q: Why is CMS changing the start times for Piedmont Middle and other schools next year? Is the change worth the savings? A: Here are the schools that would be affected:
School Piedmont Middle Smith Academy Davidson IB Middle Marie G. Davis Current Bell Schedule 8 a.m. 3 p.m. 8 a.m. 3 p.m. 8 a.m. 3 p.m. 7:15 a.m. 2:15 p.m. Proposed 2010-2011 Bell Schedule 9:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. 9:15 a.m. 4:15 p.m.

The bell-schedule changes will allow CMS to park 40 school buses because other buses would be used to run the routes. This would lead to a savings of $1.6 million, pending board approval in May. Q: The Board talked about middle school sports at its meeting on Tuesday. Whats the latest on that? A: The Board of education is still planning to cut the $1.27 million that is needed to fund middle school sports. But we have been working with the Athletics Department on ways for the program to be selffunded. Currently there are 13 sports offered in 32 middle schools. Two proposals were discussed at the April 27 meeting. Proposal 1: Eliminate five middle-school sports: boys/girls golf, softball, baseball and soccer for both boys and girls for a savings of $310,070. A $50 per sport participation fee would be charged in middle school and a $100 per sport participation fee would be charged in high school.

Page 2

Proposal 2: No sports would be eliminated. A $50 per sport participation fee would be charged in middle school and a $100 per sport participation fee would be charged in high school. There would also be a $1 surcharge on high school regular-season ticket sales.

The Board will vote on the proposed budget on May 11 and the decision on middle school sports will be made at that time. With either proposal, we would establish scholarships to assist students who need assistance with the fees. Q: Why in these difficult economic times did some of our staff move to the Government Center? A: Although the timing was certainly not ideal, there were several good reasons to do this. First, the Government Centers fifth floor office space and related parking were given to the Board of Education as part of the compensation for transferring the title for the Education Center to the county. All costs related to the move were an advance from the county. The remaining funds will be used for a replacement administration building, but those funds will not be available until Mecklenburg County sells the Ed Center to a developer. Second, by state law the proceeds from the sale or transfer of property such as the Ed Center must be used for capital projects (new construction or renovations) or to reduce bonded indebtedness (debt related to past construction projects). This means we could not use the money to offset our operating budget cuts. Third, we had agreed to do this several years ago prior to the economic downturn. The county renovated another area of the government complex to move the city and county human resources departments to give us the space. Rather than allowing the floor to sit empty, it made sense to put the office space to good use. Fourth, moving staff from the Ed Center will actually allow us to vacate some of the office space we are currently leasing. That will save us $200,000 a year. And finally, the value of establishing a closer working relationship between the county administration and CMS cannot be overlooked. We hope that by doing business out of the same building we will foster a closer working relationship. While moving the Board of Education offices and about 40 of our staff to the Government Center made good business sense, we have nonetheless tried our best to minimize the costs. The offices are very basic. In renovating the offices we left most of the existing partitions, doors, carpeting and ceiling tiles in place. And we re-used all of our existing furniture. We have been good stewards of the taxpayers money. We invite you to visit and see for yourself.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember, you can also send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

May 7, 2010

On Tuesday, May 11, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education will vote on the 2010-2011 Operating Budget. This budget would go into effect July 1. After the vote, we will share with you information about the budget and how it will affect the district. This week, we have received many e-mails and suggestions from employees that have been addressed in previous issues of the Employee Budget Bulletin. Every edition is available for viewing on the Intranet (top news story). Listed below are some areas that you have inquired about and where you can find that information: Across-the-board pay cuts as a cost savings Refer to the March 19 Budget Bulletin. An update was also given in the April 2 Budget Bulletin. Using lottery funds to meet budget gaps Refer to the April 2 Budget Bulletin. Closing learning communities to save money This was discussed in the April 2 Budget Bulletin. The leases for learning community offices were also discussed in the April 23 Budget Bulletin. Having a four-day work week to save on utilities and other costs That information can be found in the Feb. 25 Budget Bulletin.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember, you can also send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

May 14, 2010

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education approved its 2010-2011 budget request to Mecklenburg County at its May 11 meeting. Click here for a complete description of the CMS budget proposal and the scenarios. The districts proposed 2010-2011 budget redirects $3.7 million to pay for new initiatives intended to increase student achievement and improve employee performance. The proposed CMS budget also includes scenarios that would allow the district to make more than $62 million in additional cuts. If all of the scenarios are put into operation, CMS would make cuts of more than $78 million and reduce our work force by more than 1,000 employees. Local funding CMS is asking Mecklenburg County for $332.9 million, up from the $317.4 million the district received from the county for the current year. The 2010-2011 budget request asks for the $15.5 million increase in local funding to cover growth, new schools and sustaining operations. This is because: District officials anticipate a gain of 1,287 students for the 2010-2011 school year, which will add $5.1 million to its costs. CMS is requesting $804,540 from the county to help cover this. The district opens two new high schools in 2010-2011, which adds a cost of $8 million. CMS is asking the county to fund $6.6 million of that. The costs of continuing some programs and benefits have gone up, so CMS has requested the county cover some of these higher costs.

Changes to previously discussed proposals CMS TV. The Board voted to remove all funding for CMS TV, the districts television/multimedia operation. AP/IB tests. As part of Scenario 3 in the budget the Board of Education approved, the $1.38 million used for funding advanced placement and International Baccalaureate tests was eliminated. Students will have to pay for these tests in 2010-2011. Bell schedules. There had been discussion about changing the start times of four schools to save money, but only the start time for The Military and Global Leadership Academy at Marie G. Davis will change. That change will save about $600,000.

Whats next? 1. County Manager Harry Jones receives the formal budget request today. 2. The county manager presents his recommendation for the 2010-2011 budget to the Board of County Commissioners on May 18. 3. The County Commissioners hold a budget public hearing at 6 p.m. on May 27. 4. The County Commissioners adopt the 2010-2011 budget on June 15. 5. The districts budget will be completed when the state budget is approved later this summer.

Page 2

Facts on CMS funding The district received 56 percent of its funding from the state for the 2009-2010 budget year and 28 percent from Mecklenburg County, with the remainder coming from federal and other local sources.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember, you can also send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

May 21, 2010

From the Superintendent

Dear CMS employees, I promised to keep you updated on the progress of our budget for the 2010-2011 year. Next week is an important week for us and I want to be sure that all of you know whats happening. The Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on May 27 on its budget. The proposal from County Manager Harry Jones calls for cutting county funding by a total of $81.1 million, and included in that is a $21.3 million cut for CMS. Were living in hard times right now and the county budget reflects that reality. Despite that, I believe that funding education must be a top priority for Mecklenburg County, even in these hard times. CMS had the biggest reduction in local funding in all of North Carolina in the 20092010 budget $40 million. The next biggest cut, in Wake County, wasnt even close at $2.8 million. We felt those cuts this year and I am very worried about whats coming in the next two years for us. If we have to make another $75 million or more in cuts in our budget for 2010-2011, it will be felt in our classrooms in many ways. I am concerned that we are reaching the point where our funding is becoming a barrier to delivering the best education possible to every child. Weve run out of options for reductions that dont affect our classrooms. Its even bleaker for 2011-2012, because some federal stimulus money weve used to close gaps in the past two years wont be there. If Mecklenburg County and the state have the kind of revenue shortfalls weve seen in the past two years, the consequences for the CMS budget could be dire. I hope that the county commission will recognize the importance of funding CMS. The cuts being proposed this year, and the cuts looming ahead, could threaten our ability to provide what children need. I hope that the public, our parents and everyone in our community will support public education as the budget decisions are discussed and made. Pete

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember to send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

May 27, 2010

LOCAL FUNDING UPDATE

On Tuesday, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education, Superintendent Peter Gorman and Chief Financial Officer Sheila Shirley met with the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners to present the CMS 2010-2011 operating budget. Click here for a link to the CMS presentation. During the meeting, commissioners asked how much funding would be necessary for CMS to continue its academic gains. Dr. Gorman said that if CMS does not have to make the cuts in Scenario 5 (located on page 30 of the presentation), that would help the district continue to advance. Scenario 5 would cut $17.9 million, including 164 teacher assistants and 268 teachers.
STATE FUNDING UPDATE

Governor Bev Perdue has proposed a budget and the North Carolina Senate has produced its budget too. The North Carolina House of Representatives is working on its budget. The states final budget will be negotiated by all three parties and the negotiations will reconcile the differences among the three. Where we will end up isnt clear yet. The governors proposal and the Senates proposal are vastly different. We will keep you updated as the negotiations begin.

Need more information? If youd like someone to meet with your faculty or department to talk about the budget and budget process, e-mail budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us with MEETING in the subjectline. You must include MEETING to have your request processed. Remember to send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us, also.

June 3, 2010

We are still waiting for information from the county and state on funding. Well pass along details as we get them.

Need more information? Send questions and suggestions to budgetquestions@cms.k12.nc.us.

QUESTIONS 3rd-party billing 4-day work week AP/IB exam costs Athletics Central Office Reorg Class sizes CMS TV Cuts by position (TAs, facilitators, etc.) Cuts to high schools Delay new schools Dental coverage Early retirement Employee numbers Equipment/curriculum Funding (sources) Graduation expenses Hiring new employees Learning Communities Local supplement Lottery Maintenance staff National board Non-budget questions Parent University Pay (state) Pay for Performance Retirees Stimulus money Summer school Surveys Teach for America Transfer Fair Transportation Tuition Reimbursement VIF teachers Work sessions INDIVIDUAL SITUATION QUESTIONS TOTAL

NUMBER 1 13 5 4 2 1 7 23 2 3 4 3 1 4 3 2 1 6 3 5 1 3 5 3 13 12 4 2 4 1 8 14 3 1 7 1 82 257

SUGGESTIONS 12-month to 11-month employees 3rd-party billing 4-day work week Ads on buses Advanced courses

NUMBER 17 1 15 5 9

Advertising Background checks Benefits Bonuses/stipends Books/curriculum class size Closing district CMS TV Company cars Construction Cuts by position (TAs, facilitators, etc.) Delay new initiatives Delay new schools Early retirement Eliminate positions Employees instead of outsourcing Facility-use fees Fundraising Furlough Day Furniture Graduation expenses Internal swapping of supplies Learning Communities Maintenance Middle school sports Mileage reimbursements National board/master teacher supplement Parent University Pay cut/salary reduction Pay stub printing Principal input in cuts Printing Professional development Recycling Retirees Rezoning School start times Sick leave Student fees Summer school Teach for America Transportation Travel Utilities TOTAL

1 1 2 13 16 1 10 10 1 1 12 1 3 4 8 1 2 5 5 1 1 1 15 3 12 1 1 4 14 4 1 5 2 2 3 1 2 1 10 1 1 9 1 11 254

DISTRI CT NEWS 4 3 3 1 2 1 4 4 5 5 4 3 2 2 3 4 3 3 3 1 2 1

PROF DEV 2 2 1 3 3 3 2 5 3 1 1

FINAN FIT 13

TEAM NEWS

DISCOU NTS 5 4 2 3

COMMUNI TY NEWS 1 1 5

GRANT ALERT/I NFO 1 1 2

AWA RDS 2 3

STUDEN T OPPORT UNITIES

BENEF ITS

PARE NT UNIVE RSITY

DEPT NEWSLE TTERS 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

CMS TV PROM O

EMPLOY MENT OPPORT UNITY 1 1 3 4

1 1 2 1

4 3 2 2 3

1 2 2 2 4 7 3 4 4 4 4 4 6 1 3 7 2 3 1 3 1

4 4 1 2 4 1 1 3 3 3 4 2 2 3

2 3 1 1 1

2 2 2 2 1

1 4 1 1 5

1 1 2 1 1 2 1 1

1 2 2 1

2 1

1 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1

1 1

131

97

85

81

109

44

33

57

24

24

43

16

Dear Employee Excellence Sponsor: Thank you for agreeing to help Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools honor our staff. CMS educates more than 135,000 youth every day, preparing them to become the leaders of tomorrow. This undertaking is only possible because of the hard work of more than 19,000 men and women who work for the district. From the school-based educators to the office staff who support learning, CMS is truly grateful for all of its employees who contribute to making this district and its students reach further. Some employees go above and beyond their duties. They reach further through: Reinforcing the CMS Strategic Plan 2010 goal of helping students reach high academic achievement Exceeding safety service and injury-prevention standards Advancing knowledge and innovation to benefit CMS and its students Committing to community and civic involvement and awareness of education issues Heightening standards of world-class service to internal or external customers To acknowledge the work of employees who REACH further, CMS has implemented the Employee Excellence Award. CMS staff can nominate an employee for the recognition. With the Employee Excellence Award, CMS sponsors are expected to:

Contribute funds or gift cards to give to the winners. Attend (or send one representative) to the monthly meeting to choose two winners.

You may also receive DVD copies of the employee recognition show Above & Beyond which airs the segments where award winners are surprised and congratulated as well as any articles written about them. If you have any questions about the program, or require further clarification, please contact me at 980.343.6314 or o.shands@cms.k12.nc.us.

2009-2010 Meeting Dates

Thank you for partnering with us to celebrate our outstanding employees. Listed below are the meeting dates for 2009-2010. All meetings will be held at 11 a.m. at the Education Center in Room 226.

Sept. 10 Oct. 8 Nov. 12 Dec. 10 Jan. 14 Feb. 11 March 11 April 8 May 13 June 3

Procedures for Employee Excellence Sponsors

Thank you for partnering with us to celebrate the outstanding employees of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Each month, we will recognize two employees who go above and beyond their duties in CMS. Here are the procedures:

Nominations are solicited from staff. Staff submits nominees by the closing date (Typically, the second Monday of the month) Nominations will be sent electronically to partners. Partners will meet on the Thursday following the submissions in the Education Center (701 E. MLK Blvd.) If they cannot attend, partners will e-mail their top three choices to judith.malveaux@cms.k12.nc.us). At the meeting, partners will choose the top candidates. CMS EE staff will follow up, setting up surprises.

If you have any questions about the program, or require further clarification, please contact me at 980.343.6314 or o.shands@cms.k12.nc.us.

Seven-Digit Dialing
GOALS: To communicate to all staff: 1. That they must dial seven digits to reach any office or school in the district 2. That some numbers may have changed as a result of the new numbers 3. To use the online directory and internet as resources for numbers To communicate to the community that CMS numbers no longer begin with just 343-. INTERNAL
Target Audiences Activities Develop FAQ about sevendigit dialing change, to include: Why being done When it will go live What will change What that means for staff Send memo to all managers/principals outlining seven-digit dialing Post Web story on dialing change on Intranet, including FAQ Send e-mail all regarding change to dialing method Include information about dialing change in DirectLine Work with Graphic Productions to develop a poster to go in all offices, schools, reminding staff about seven-digit dialing E-mail all reminder sent to all staff, with small version of poster included All staff, community Start date 6.19 End date Responsible Duncan/Malveaux Notes

6.22 6.24 6.24 6.29 6.15 7.20 7.6

Duncan/Malveaux Malveaux Duncan/Malveaux Malveaux Duncan/Malveaux Posters should be completed and sent to managers/principals by July 6

7.15

Malveaux

EXTERNAL
Target Audiences Activities Include information about numbers change in NewsUpdates on CMS TV All staff, community Start date 7.13 End date 7.27 Responsible Sussman/Malveau x Notes

CMS Transfer Fair Communication Plan 2010

Objective
To provide publicity support for the 2010 employee transfer fair. The fair is for the 2010-11 school year.

Start

Finish

Area(s) Responsible

Key messages
Only certain educators are eligible for Transfer Fair Transfer Fair dates are Jan. 19-22 (NEW SCHOOLS) and March 16-19 (GENERAL)

Timeline
Meet with HR staff to discuss communication needs for Transfer Fair Discuss communication options Include Save the Date reminder of TF in DirectLine Send FAQs and other pertinent info to HRDC to communicate to callers with questions. Include information about event/dates and times in DirectLine/the Intranet. Develop site under QuickLinks on the Intranet to give employees more information on subject. Dec. 10 Dec. 15 Dec. 10 Dec. 21 Jan. 4 Jan. 4, Jan. 11 March 1, March 15 Jan. 12 Malveaux Malveaux HR Malveaux

Malveaux/HR

E-mail all staff announcing Transfer Fair Post vacancies at new schools E-mail all staff reminding them about the NEW SCHOOL Transfer Fair E-mail to staff about TF ending DL to include Save the date reminder of general Transfer Fair March 16-19. Develop Intranet page with links to FAQ, Transfer Fair information, including: FAQ Who can participate Where to go with questions (e-mail, phone number) Send talking points about the Transfer Fair to HRDC and learning communities to communicate to staff who may have questions All staff e-mail sent listing dates of transfer and linking to FAQ Send e-mail reminding of TF ending

Jan. 14 Jan 19 Jan. 19 Jan. 22 March 2, March 9 March 9

Malveaux HR Malveaux Malveaux Malveaux HR/Communications

March 9 March 11 March 19

HR/Communications Communications Communications

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Staffing Timeline for 2010-11 School Year December 17, 2009

EOY End of Year DCHC Dept. Chairs/Head Coaches GTF General Transfer Fair

NSTF New School Transfer Fair TATF Teacher Assistant Transfer Fair

TFA Teach for America VIF Visiting International Faculty

December 17, 2009 December 18, 2009

Initial communication sent to all principals regarding staffing timeline and process NSTF: Preliminary ADM teacher and licensed support allotments sent to new school principals

Dec. 21, 2009 Jan. 7, 2010 Department chair and head coaching positions for new high schools posted December 28, 2009 NSTF: Preliminary ADM teacher and licensed support allotments sent to principals of schools heavily impacted by new schools opening (for purpose of determining displacements) NSTF: Deadline for new school principals/area superintendents to submit position exchange requests to positionexchange@cms.k12.nc.us by noon NSTF: Position exchanges for new schools processed by end of day January 4-15, 2010 NSTF: School visits to schools impacted by the opening of new schools (HR managers should email principals the intent letter and displacement templates prior to the school visits. Copies of these documents should be collected by the HRM during the school visit and used for planning purposes. Dates of transfer opportunities should also be addressed during the school visits) FOCUS Schools and Schools Ineligible to Participate in the Transfer Process Announced NSTF: Vacancy information for posting during the New School Transfer Fair process due to recruiters January 11, 2010 DCHC: Recruiters send eligible referrals for department chair and head coaching positions to new school principals New School Transfer Fair core subject and support positions posted. Teachers complete on-line application for transfer through the Intranet
DCHC: Deadline for new school principals to send recommendations for department chair and head

January 4, 2010

January 6, 2010

January 19-22, 2010

January 20, 2010

coaching positions to recruiters by noon January 21-22, 2010

DCHC: Recruiters notify teachers selected for department chair and head coaching positions by phone.

Principals of losing schools will be emailed notification regarding candidate acceptance with a copy to the teacher and HR manager January 29, 2010 February 1-22, 2010 NSTF: Recruiters send eligible referrals to principals by noon GTF: School visits to schools impacted by program/student assignment changes (HR managers should email principals the intent letter and displacement templates prior to the school visits. Copies of these documents should be collected by the HRM during the school visit and used for planning purposes. Dates of transfer opportunities should also be addressed during these school visits) NSTF: Principals submit recommendations from interview process to transfers@cms.k12.nc.us by noon NSTF: Recruiters notify selected teachers by phone. Principals of losing schools will be emailed notification regarding candidate acceptance with a copy to the teacher and HR manager Student enrollment projections made available following first lottery

February 12, 2010 February 15-16, 2010

February 16, 2010

Page 1

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Staffing Timeline for 2010-11 School Year December 17, 2009

February 17, 2010 February 22, 2010

New School Transfer Process Complete Preliminary allotment information, intent forms and displacement templates provided to principals

February 22 March 1, 2010 Staffing analysis and assessment completed by principals, recruiters and HR managers Principals share allotments and projected displacements with staff. Principals notify impacted staff and encourage displaced staff to seek transfer opportunities. Principals submit displacement list to HR manager GTF: Position Exchange requests submitted to positionexchange@cms.k12.nc.us for transfer fair postings March 3, 2010 March 5, 2010 March 8-10, 2010 GTF: Positions exchanges processed GTF: Vacancy information for posting during the General Transfer Fair process due to recruiters Initial TFA placements secured and impacted principals and area superintendents notified Initial VIF placements confirmed (by principal request only) March 16-19, 2010 General Transfer Fair core subject and support positions posted. Teachers complete on-line application for transfer through the Intranet GTF: Recruiters send eligible referrals to principals by noon Spring Break GTF: Principals submit recommendations from interview process to transfers@cms.k12.nc.us by noon GTF: Recruiters notify selected teachers by phone. Principals of receiving and losing schools will be emailed notification regarding candidate acceptance with a copy to the teacher and HR manager General Transfer Process Complete Remaining vacancy information shared with HR Consulting for completion of the displacement process EOY Reference form/evaluation template sent out to all principals to be completed for EOY hires April 19-30, 2010 Displacement process implemented/completed Additional TFA placements secured and impacted principals and area superintendents notified Additional VIF placements confirmed (by principal request only) May August 2010 Maintain lists for displaced staff, TFA core members, available VIF teachers, EOY candidates and student teachers. Make placements and referrals as positions become available TATF: Teacher Assistant vacancies due to recruiters by noon EOY reference/evaluation forms due back to HR managers, principals wishing to recommend an EOY employee for rehire for the 2010-11 school year may do so at this time provided a specific vacancy exists at their respective school and their EOY reference/evaluation does not indicate any performance deficiencies. EOY employees recommended for continuing employment must also have valid licensure for the 2010-11 school year. Recommendations due by noon and must be attached to the EOY reference

March 26, 2010 April 5-9, 2010 April 12, 2010 April 12-13, 2010

April 14, 2010 April 15, 2010

May 3, 2010 May 7, 2010

Page 2

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Staffing Timeline for 2010-11 School Year December 17, 2009

May 7-11, 2010

Offers extended to EOY employees recommended for continuing employment. Principals will be emailed notification regarding candidate acceptance with a copy to teacher and HR manager Teacher Assistant Transfer Fair positions posted. Teacher Assistants complete on-line application for transfer through the Intranet Candidate referrals made to principals with remaining vacancies Begin posting positions externally and accepting recommendations for the 2010-11 school year Remaining TFA placements and VIF requests confirmed

May 10-13, 2010

May 12, 2010 TBD

May 15, 2010 May 17-21, 2010 May 19, 2010 May 28, 2010 June 1, 2010

Important Date: Deadline for notifying teachers of our intent to non-renew for the 2010-11 school year ASEP Transfer Process TATF: Recruiters send eligible referrals to principals by noon TATF: Principals submit recommendations from interview process to transfers@cms.k12.nc.us by noon TATF: Recruiters notify selected teacher assistants by phone. Principals of receiving and losing schools will be emailed notification regarding candidate acceptance with a copy to the teacher and HR manager Teacher Assistant Transfer Fair complete Teach for America Meet and Greet

June 2, 2010 June 2010 (Date TBD)

Page 3

Human Resources Department 701 East Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Charlotte, North Carolina 28202

MEMORANDUM

TO: THRU: FROM:

All Principals Hugh Hattabaugh Maurice Ambler Kim Brazzell (contact person 980-343-7416) December 17, 2009 2010-11 Staffing Timeline As indicated in the Staffing Timeline

DATE: SUBJECT: ACTION:

Attached please find the Staffing Timeline for the 2010-11 school year. Eligible teachers may seek transfer opportunities during the New School and General Transfer Fairs. Both fairs will be administered online. As you review the Staffing Timeline, please be cognizant of the following key dates related to student assignment: January 9 Magnet Fair February 8 First Lottery Deadline March 1 through 26 Student Reassignment Request Period As we continue to emphasize employing the most effective teachers, we will continue to address below standard performance. If a non-career licensed employee receives a summative evaluation with any below standard ratings and we have supporting documentation, the employee will be nonrenewed at year-end. Please be reminded that if you evaluate an employee below standard, your recommendation should be to non-renew the employee. As many of you know, teachers hired after December 8 are hired as end-of-year employees. In addition, effective January 4, we will begin hiring all external non-instructional, school-based staff as end-of-year employees as well. This excludes custodians, ASEP and Child Nutrition positions. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact your HR manager or recruiter.

c: Executive Staff Human Resources Staff

Phone: 980-343-6231 Fax: 980-343-7407 www.cms.k12.nc.us CMS TV

In compliance with federal law, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools administers all educational programs, employment activities and admissions without discrimination against any person on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, national origin, age or disability.

2010-11 New School and General On-line Transfer Fairs Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the dates of the New School and General Transfer Fairs? Both fairs will be administered on-line. Positions will be posted for the New School Transfer Fair from January 1922. Positions will be posted for the General Transfer Fair from March 16-19. Where can teachers view available positions and how do they submit applications for transfer? Employees will log-on to the Intranet and click on the following links: Departments/Human Resources/Employee Transfers. A link will be available for you to view available positions a few days prior to each transfer fair. Another link will be available for submitting applications January 1922 and March 16-19. Who is eligible to participate in the transfer process? Full-time, permanent employees who have worked at least two years at their current school and currently have at standard or above standard performance are eligible to participate in the transfer process. Can a teacher who is currently in an end-of-year position apply for transfer? No, only teachers working in permanent, full-time positions are eligible to apply for positions during the transfer periods. Is a teacher who was previously displaced but accepted a transfer position during the 2009-10 transfer period eligible to apply for another transfer? No, all teachers who accepted a position during the 2009-10 transfer period are required to work two full years at the schools they accepted.

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Is a teacher who was displaced in 2008-09 and placed by Human Resources for the 2009-10 school year eligible to participate in the transfer process? Yes, teachers who are involuntarily displaced are required to remain in that placement for only one year. These teachers are eligible to apply for transfer during the 2010-11 on-line transfer periods. Can a teacher in a non-FOCUS school transfer to a FOCUS school after working only one year in the non-FOCUS school? Yes, a teacher working in a non-FOCUS school for one year is eligible to apply for transfer to a FOCUS school only during the transfer process. Can a teacher apply for a position that is NOT currently on their license? No, Human Resources must have documentation that the teacher is certified and Highly Qualified for the content area that he/she is seeking a transfer. Can a teacher in central office apply for a teaching position during the transfer process? Yes, as long as the teacher in central office is certified and Highly Qualified for the position that he/she is seeking a transfer.

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10. Can a teacher who is on an Action Plan apply for transfer? No, teachers currently on Action Plans are not eligible to participate in the transfer process. 11. Can a part-time teacher apply for a full-time position during the transfer period? No, only full-time teachers can participate in the transfer process. 12. Can a full-time permanent teacher assistant apply for a teaching position during the on-line transfer process? No, only teachers in current teaching positions are eligible to participate in the transfer process.

13. Can an employee in a non-certified position, such as a BMT or Family/School Advocate, apply for a transfer during this time? No, only teacher-level positions will be advertised during the New School and General Transfer Fairs. Employees may apply for transfer/promotion into positions such as BMT or Family/School Advocate at anytime during the school year. 14. Are teachers eligible to apply for other teacher vacancies after the transfer periods? No, may only pursue transfer opportunities during the transfer process. Teachers must closely monitor the transfer fair communications for the beginning and ending dates. No applications will be accepted after the closing dates. 15. When will teachers be notified about whether or not they have been selected for a transfer? Human Resources will contact teachers who are recommended for positions by February 16 (New School Transfer Fair) and April 13 (General Transfer Fair). 16. Are teachers required to accept an offer to transfer? Teachers should rank schools in order of preference when applying for positions. Offers will be extended based on the recommendations from the principals and the order of preference. If a teacher declines an offer to transfer, their participation in the transfer process ends. 17. Can the application be revised after being submitted? No, once you submit an application it cannot be edited. If you wish to withdraw your request for a particular school you must email transfers@cms.k12.nc.us as well as the principal to request that your name be removed from consideration.