"We Can Do Better"

#14

I had the good fortune to attend the "Dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline Forum" held at Centenary United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 23, 2010.

This day long event, which was one of several being conducted throughout the State of Georgia was the subject of an article by Andrea Castillo in "The Telegraph" on Friday, October 22, 2010.  Ms. Castillo's article was entitled "Forum to explore discipline in public School" which caught my eye.  As a candidate for the Bibb County Georgia School Board I determined that I must attend this event.

I feel very fortunate that I was able to attend and appreciate the information that was shared during this day long event.

There were four topics presented.  The first session focused on a data book entitled "2010 Kids Count" which allowed us all to learn of the situations concerning Georgia's Children.

The second session was specific data concerning Bibb County Georgia and everyone was shocked to learn of the number if discipline problems that are handled each year in the two suspension programs which are in school suspension and out of school suspension.

The third session focused on the current rewriting of the Georgia Juvenile Code and was led by the Project Director of JUST Georgia.

The fourth session was entitled "When My Child is Disciplined at School" and each attendee was presented a handbook which contained appropriate information for Parents and/or Other Involved Adults to use when their Child/Children is/are disciplined at School.

The Working Lunch focused on a discussion with State Senator Robert Brown who focused on the topic "Organizing Your Community."

As a Candidate for Post 8, County Wide for the Bibb County Georgia School Board I learned a lot and was provided an abundance of resources which will assist me when elected.

Published by Alan Thiese

Candidate for Post 8 (County Wide)

Bibb County Georgia Board of Education