Love TIP wrote on Mar 23, 2008 1:57 AM:My son goes to TIP and I can tell you that this is only a very small handful of negative parents all with 5th grade children that are unhappy because there will be no TIP Jr. High for their children to attend when they are finished with elementary school after next year. The remaining 99.9 percent of parents are very satisfied with the school, teachers, and administration. Without Mike and Debbie Hazelton there would be no TIP. Keep up the good work!

LOVE TIP TOO! wrote on Mar 23, 2008 8:56 AM:Staff writer Barbara Henry is correct that it is a deepening divide. It is not a small handful of negative parents with 5th grade children. Teachers have placed themselves in the middle of administration issues. Supportive parents have been coached by administration and teachers to tell others "If you don't like TIP..LEAVE!" Unfortunately, children have read these messages that have been painted on cars at TIP and they have begun to ask questions. We need to considered the negative spillover to TIP students.

ESCONative wrote on Mar 23, 2008 8:57 AM:I've been involved with several charter school start-ups. A two year period is about the average time for problems to arise. I hope that all involved remember two important things:

1) If the program is working for the children, do whatever you need to do to keep it going. In these days of budget cuts and emphasis on testing, children of above-average intelligence are woefully shortchanged in the public schools.

2) I don't know how your school is set up, but in most cases the board can replace the administration. If you choose this option, do it quickly. If you let things drag on, the program will suffer.

PUT THE KIDS FIRST!!!

I Know smartt kids wrote on Mar 23, 2008 10:07 AM:If the parents of these children were gifted they would have their children in private school to start with, not trying reinvent the wheel all over again!!!

Not so Gifted after all wrote on Mar 23, 2008 10:38 AM:Good point made by Gary Larson, spokesman for the California Charter Schools Association. He said, "I could rattle off a half a dozen to a dozen" excellent charter schools run by husband-wife teams.”

I say, I can rattle off many names myself some who are linked to The California Charter Academy (CCA) with CEO, C. Steven Cox ran what was the state’s largest charter school network, enrolling thousands of students at dozens of campuses, but according to investigators, he routinely looted millions from the public schools to ENRICH his FRIENDS and FAMILY, leading to the schools’ collapse last summer, according to a state audit. During the charter school's tenure, it ran into many legal confrontations with the California Department of Education (CDE).

Read the CDE own link into the audit. http://www.cde.ca.gov/nr/ne/yr05/yr05rel43.asp

But my TIP friends don’t dispare yet the California Charter Schools Association has their nose so deep in the California Legislative and Assembly members pockets and ever more visible with their defiance in recognizing the deep rooted charter problems.

Charter schools mesmerize even our new Attorney General Jerry Brown, (yes the Charter School Association lobbyist are there too.) TIP critics may refer to as “nepotism.” The California Attorney General refers to such practices as CONFLICT of INTERESTS and INCESTUOUS RELATIONSHIPS.

At first glance the charter school petition submitted by the Hazelton’s was very similar as the one submitted by the Guajome Park Academy. It appears that the same problems plague these charter schools once the parents start to wise up and see that these charter schools are not all about CHILDREN nor EDUCATION but rather making big bucks in an unregulated industry.

Neither the California State Legislation, State Board of Education nor the California Department of Education has any monitoring, enforcement or control of these charter schools.

Right on wrote on Mar 23, 2008 10:57 AM:"Not so Gifted after all" you have it right. The terms "CONFLICT of INTERESTS" and "INCESTUOUS RELATIONSHIPS" seem not exist in the Tip world. Do they use the same dictionary that my kids use at their school?

The Irony of it All wrote on Mar 23, 2008 12:59 PM:We have a child currently enrolled at one of the Encinitas public schools so many of the TIP parents run from.

Our daughter is working way above grade level (gosh, gifted maybe?)and each day she tells us how happy she is and how much she loves school. She has a classroom full of students working at different levels - you may scoff at differentiation, but by golly, I'm volunteering in that classroom and I see it working.

Maybe our daughter lucked out with a truly talented teacher. Regardless, we adore our little school and we'd welcome TIP families back to their local (non charter) public schools anytime....

Dig deeper wrote on Mar 23, 2008 5:15 PM:TIP parents, please do your homework and educate yourself! Read the Cortez Hill Acdemey audit. It is a public document. I quote "the direcor/principal approved and received a pay increae for himself without board approval." Find out why Las Banderas Academy had to be closed under the same leadership. I'm sure you don't want the same to happen to you.

No Transperancy or Accountability wrote on Mar 23, 2008 7:14 PM:Dig deeper- what is the link to the Cortez Academy audit? I am familiar with Las Banderas and as memory serves me correct, it was connected to the same charter people discussed in the article. It sounds like different charter schools but the founders and the charters administrations go back to the Guajome Park Academy and sister SIATech that branched out of Guajome Park Academy. I wish the North County Times would get an AP reporter to track down the charter schools that branched out of Guajome Park Academy and their founders. The original charter grantee the Vista Unified School District is clueless as to how many charter schools and their exact locations branched out of the same theory, administration and founders. Up to now they have branched out throughout the state of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Florida, etc.

How about taking the challenge North County Times?

Concerned parent wrote on Mar 24, 2008 9:25 AM:Dig Deeper .... do you have a link to the audit you mention? What foundation do you have for the allegations you throw out?

Taking the challenge wrote on Mar 24, 2008 10:21 AM:Perhaps if the NC Times does investigate in depth, the LA Times might step up? Today's article in the LA Times mentions the Cortez Hills issue. I just think it is critical to get all the facts in the open so well informed decisions can be made.

Adult Supervision wrote on Mar 24, 2008 10:27 AM:Gosh, there's a *real conspiracy* here! Someone get Oliver Stone's people on the phone RIGHT NOW so we can all play the telephone game!

TIP and - most importantly - its students are doing just fine. If you believe otherwise, go spend some time in any classroom there. You will see children of a wide range of inate abilities learning to think (not just regurgitate facts).

There are always those disenfranchised who cannot help but froth at the mouth. It's a spectacle alright, but not to be confused with truth or doing well by doing good.

TIP Supporter wrote on Mar 24, 2008 10:40 AM:It's really a shame that this small group of extremely vocal parents are ruining it for the large group of us who LOVE TIP! The ironic part is that those who are destroying TIP are the very parents who are fighting so hard for a TIP middle school. It just doesn't make sense. We have 2 children at TIP and we love it (no administrator or teacher told me to say that!)

Way to Go ??? wrote on Mar 24, 2008 11:58 AM:For the ones try to cause some dameges before they leave the school, what kind of messages you teach your children. Remember, your kids will leave you one day, this is what they learn.

Julie wrote on Mar 24, 2008 12:00 PM:
Concerned parent- the audits are available through the San Diego County Office of Education through a Public Records Request the cost is minimal about .10 per copy.

Deeply concerned wrote on Mar 24, 2008 12:40 PM:It's not just 5th grade parents. I have a 1st grader at TIP and it feels like everyone is talking about these concerns. It's distressing and I hope that we can get back on track soon.

tip top school? wrote on Mar 24, 2008 12:41 PM:OK. Show me a public school of this size or a private school of this size with 2 administrators!! No matter how much you "LOVE TIP", wouldn't you rather see that money go to the kids? Think of how it could be spent. Let's agree on ONE administrator next year, and the other can be one of the 2 teachers that TIP will be hiring. If they are so talented, let's get them in the classroom with our kids! It is unheard of to have that percentage of the budget go to administration for such a small school. All you TIP lovers, get your heads out of the clouds and take a look at the finances and the ratio of money going to administrators in relation to how much is actually going into classrooms. If you want the school to survive, you can't be in debt!

open your eyes wrote on Mar 24, 2008 1:13 PM:I agree with TIP TOP. Of course we all love and want TIP to survive, but we can't turn a blind eye on what is going on with the finances. Maybe both administrators could go into the classrooms next year as teachers, and we could hire someone with a lot of school administration experience to lead TIP. I would hope that the administrators are, at this point, thinking about what is best for the school, and not what is best for their personal bank account.

Let's Get Somethings Right wrote on Mar 24, 2008 2:03 PM:First, the district did and does have a Gifted program. It is not extensive though as the state does not provide very much money for it. The Hazelton's chose Encinitas, not because it did not have a GATE program, they chose it because there was money here. This is also why they are now trying to open a charter school is Palos Verdes... more money. Let's also not forget the biggest issue with this charter - it drains money out of our district.... valuable money and resources that the school district could use for personal, training, curriculum, etc. Let's do this. Let's stop this charter, have the children and the money come back the district and then do fundraising through EEF to create a fabulous GATE program. If you stop paying the Hazleton's $200,000 in salaries and put it towards a GATE program, well then we will really have something then. These parents who have worked tirelessly to open this school and raise money are amazing and they would do a great job raising money for an in-district GATE program. We could all be happy then.

smart art wrote on Mar 24, 2008 2:23 PM:LOVE can solve all things. Let's try to get along, hug an administrator, and bring some goodies to our teachers to show how much we care. I can even post a recipe or two if anyone is interested.

from Los Angeles wrote on Mar 24, 2008 2:42 PM:I am a parent who lives in the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. TIP is currently trying to open a charter school in our district next year. I don't know if this is good or bad, or whether your school is good or bad. What I can tell you is that on their petition, 6 of your current teachers (based on your website) have signed the petition saying that they are "teachers who are meaningfully interested teaching in the charter school." If the PV charter is approved, and these teachers are being truthful, then a large chunk of your staff won't be in Encinitas next year.

Read much? wrote on Mar 24, 2008 3:21 PM:Has anyone actually read the LA Times article? If so, it is clear that more than home made baked goods are in order to save the day here.

Time for honesty wrote on Mar 24, 2008 4:17 PM:This has become an unfortunate and divisive debate and much of this could have been avoided if the issues were addressed openly and honestly. It is disheartening that the school leadership cannot provide honest answers to seemingly simple questions. Example, claiming TIP curriculum is not ready for middle school education yet the PV charter including grades K-8 is an obvious disparity in facts. Do an internet search on the recent LA Times article for proof. Teachers and administrators signing agreements to go to both the LA and PV charters (leaving Encinitas) are another troubling example of dishonesty, at least two communities are not being told the truth. Ignorance may be bliss but it is contrary to good education.

Concerned parent wrote on Mar 24, 2008 5:39 PM:Love and Care

TIP was created by group of people with love children and care about education. The staffs and teachers put their hearts and souls into the school. Our administrators encourage open speech for both parents and students at the school. I have two boys attending TIP and this is the second year. The teachers are like angels for my children. They learn to think outside of the box and respect others’ opinions. They have not been happier in their lives. All the TIP parents should realize that our children are the only reason we are here in TIP. We should resolve the differences on our opinions with our love for our children in mind.

CharterStarter wrote on Mar 24, 2008 6:28 PM:Hey,sounds like a bummer deal with TIP Encinitas. Anyone want to start a new charter?

Giftness or stupidity wrote on Mar 24, 2008 7:02 PM:
Read much?- some of these ports redefine GIFTNESS maybe IGNORANCE is a BLISS would be more like it.

Some Parents Agree wrote on Mar 24, 2008 7:25 PM:Time for honesty: I am a TIP parent who agrees with you. We Love TIP, we love the way they teach, we love the positive classroom environment but we also must be able to trust our administrators. It might be time for a little honesty.

Let your voices be heard wrote on Mar 24, 2008 7:42 PM:
Parents need to express their concerns about charter school disasters and NEPOTISM to the members of the California legislation. This very issue will be addressed on April 4th 2008.

Contact the California State Sssembly Chair Gene Mullin; members Joe Coto, Loni Hancock, Betty Karnett and Julia Brownley. Google their names or google California State Assembly Committee on Education for a phone directory or email address.

Encinitas Homeowner wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:01 AM:I live in the area of the school, and never once was I asked whether I agreed to its location. It has doubled traffic on a privately-maintained street, by about 600 cars per day. Parents are regularly discourteous to local residents when picking up and dropping off, often speeding on the street, veering around other cars or parking in local driveways while waiting for their kids (are you reading, Encinitas Sheriff's Department?). TIP is located on a privately maintained culdesac, yet not at all responsible for its upkeep (despite being funded by my property taxes). The school has suggested one way to fix the traffic problem would be to seize land and push the road through to Requeza. The neighborhood and the school system was fine before they showed up. TIP is about growing a business, not about neighborly relations or improving the community.

Laura wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:42 AM:Sorry, -Homeowner- but again these charter schools are unregulated and neither cities, counties, states or any one wants to touch charter schools. The Charter School Associations spends too much money on lobbyist in Sacramento (nationally too.) They are much worst than the teachers unions they adamantly criticize. Besides our own representative Mark Wyland pays dumb. They lobby to oppose any form of regulations on charter schools. Just imagine what it would be like to drive on the roads with no stop signs, stop lights, right or left turn signals or any directional signs or laws. It would be like disasters waiting to happen and one can be assure that many disastrous things are happening in these charter schools but they are not being reported. Yes, neither CDE, the State Board of Education, the California Legislators, the SDCOE, any city nor state has any JURISDICTIONAL ENFORCEMENT in these charter schools. Once again because they are an UNREGULATED BUSINESS and they like it that way!

To Encinitas Homeowner wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:06 AM:Whine, whine, whine. If you have an issue with it, take it to the Encinitas school board. They put the school there.

Also, if it weren't for parents at TIP your precious little private cul-de-sac would still be full of pot-holes created by Ocean Knoll. It was repaired at parent's cost against the advice of the city.

I cannot believe the willingness of people to look for the worst in a good situation, especially from axe-grinders who couldn't get their children in the school. You all had your chance and you passed.

Stop with the whining already.

To whine, whine, whine wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:40 AM:You seem to have alot of time on your hands. Time to fix potholes, time to annoy the home owners with valid complaints and from what I can see from your posts, time to harrass the only parents with half a brain who are trying to help your school be safe from your precious administrators. And by the way, I think you missed the biggest pot hole out there holding up the stop and go sign trying to direct traffic!

If your situation is in fact so good, why are you having to spend so much time defending it?

To Some Parents Agree wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:24 AM:I am an Encinitas parent who is possibly interested in TIP. Is there anything the current and prospective parents are doing to put some pressure on the administration to respond to the accusations?

stevie wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:48 AM:OK all you tipsters. So, what is the solution? Get rid of Big Mike? But then, who will direct traffic? It would be impossible to find another "traffic director" for the tiny pay of $95,000 a year.

patti wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:53 AM:Interested parent, pressure HAS been put on the administration to respond, but basically we are told that if we aren't happy, we should leave TIP. So, we could leave, but then all the ignorant dreamy-eyed parents would allow this unethical situation to continue for the LOVE of their kids. Yes, the curriculum and most (not all) teachers are good, but that doesn't mean people should not be insisting on funds being used properly and for the good of all kids.

Bottom Liner wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:59 AM:What EXACTLY are the allegations?

To Whine, Whine, Whine wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:15 PM:You illustrate the point perfectly. The local community was never asked about TIP nor even notified that the school was going in. It just showed up one day. When we raise legitimate questions about the effect on the community or use of our tax dollars, we are told to 'shut up and quit whining' by people who don't even live in the neighborhood. This is bullying, not social accountability or good business. TIP professes to teach children critical thinking, so why do they have a problem with taxpayers doing the same?

wait and see wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:29 PM:Well, from what I read in the article, if TIP can't get the 3% reserve for emergencies, then Encinitas USD has a legitimate reason to shut them down. I hope they are looking into this. And, how is TIP planning on weathering the upcoming 10% budget cut? Has anything been said about that?

To Whine, Whine, Whine wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:35 PM:It just showed up one day? Come now...

Just because you weren't paying attention to your local school board activities prior to TIP's opening doesn't mean that it wasn't public information. Go back and check the board meeting agendas from 2006. There was PLENTY of notice.

Yes, some of the money that would go to the EUSD is being given to TIP but that is well within the Prop 39 statutes.

No one is telling you to shut up... Just say something that has merit.

Some of you need to some research wrote on Mar 25, 2008 3:27 PM:To wait and see: The fact of the matter is that the school is required to have 1% in reserves. The EUSD arbitrarily raised the amount to 3% and has no basis from which to do so. TIP is, in fact, exceeding the required reserve percentage.

All the blathering on this blog page is ridiculous. So much complaining and so little knowledge.

ESCONative wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:05 PM:To Let's Get Somethings Right:

Yes, charter schools do take money from the local school district, BUT, it's money that should be spent on a particular student. If all these students returned to the public schools that money would be divided up for other programs, not for a GATES program. Most likely the money would be used for under-achieving students so the district wouldn't be sanctioned by the state for lack of progress.

It's too bad people can't let parents decide for themselves what's best for their particular child. Charter schools are not taking any money other than what should be spent on those students attending the charter school.

Who needs to do the research?? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:07 PM:EUSD wants to raise their oversight fee from 1% to 3%. This is entirely separate from the 3% reserves that TIP should maintain. Talk about blathering!

Concerned taxpayer wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:17 PM:The Hazeltons seem to be under the illusion that they don't need to openly and honestly address the issues that cast a shadow over TIP and their leadership--namely the necessity of Mike's $95,000 apparent part-time position, the relationship between (and oversight of) TIP Academy and TIP Education, the fact that TIP teachers stated their intention to work at TIP PV and LA (what about their commitment to Encinitas?), their inability to proceed with a junior high in Encinitas while petitioning for K-8 in PV, LA, Mike's questionable (perhaps illegal?) activities at other charters .... It goes on and on.
I am not a TIP parent, but I'm a taxpayer, resident and parent in Encinitas. TIP is not a private school. It's funded by taxpayer dollars. The concerns that have been raised are legitimate, and the Hazeltons have an obligation to the taxpayers and their parents, who fund their salaries and the school, to address them openly and honestly. If they don't, the Encinitas school board must pull their charter. They can open a fee-based private school, answer to no one, and run it anyway they want. At this point, why should they? The taxpayer gravy train is too easy.

To concerned taxpayer wrote on Mar 25, 2008 5:49 PM:I think you have finally solved the TIP mystery. They must not realize that they are a public school! School administrators at private schools must not need to address valid concerns like this. Perhaps you could send them an email to notify them that they work at a public school after all?

Concerned taxpayer wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:30 PM:Private schools that don't address valid concerns don't last long. The money walks away.

Another concerned taxpayer wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:12 PM:If the Hazeltons have nothing to hide they would address the allegations. Instead they hide behind the teachers and those parents that don't want to face the facts. You can run but you can't hide.

Is TIP suing or being sued? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:12 PM:Does anyone have info on the 2 cases of litigation that TIP is involved in, or how I could find the public records of the cases?

Public Information wrote on Mar 26, 2008 6:48 AM:To is TIP suing: Call Rob Berkowitz, TIP parent and possibly the lawyer used in negotiations for the different boards and administrators at TIP. He might not know what conflict of interest is, but he might know what cases they are currently involved in.

Esteban wrote on Mar 26, 2008 7:43 AM:Hey to all you complainers here somebody at my kids school told me to read this web page. What a joke you all complain like spoil kids. you are always wlecome back at you original home school with my chidlren you left us. We well still except you even you left us for that gifted school. No parents complane at our school like all you do. How do you get time off of you work to to do so much meetings.

Mary wrote on Mar 26, 2008 8:46 AM:........and all this with taxpayer money. Why would an exceptional school district like Encinitas Elementary School District allow such financial impact on their budget. If these parents want a private school environment for their children - send them to private school and stop using public funds to create a private school atmosphere for YOUR children.
It's absurd that these administrators are being paid twice - once for school administration and then for the company which they founded! This should not be allowed - and also, what kind of backbone does their board have... making decisions not on behalf of the children, but for the benefit of the Hazeltons who are in it for profit!

to "Not so Gifted after all" wrote on Mar 26, 2008 9:03 AM:So Cox is one name... You said you could rattle off many. Well who are the rest?

Esteban? wrote on Mar 26, 2008 9:17 AM:Are you sure you are not a student in Teheri's class?

To Mary wrote on Mar 26, 2008 9:55 AM:What EVIDENCE do you have that the Hazeltons are in this for profit? How do you know that their decisions are NOT on behalf of the children? What do really know about them AT ALL?

If you believe in something, what better way to spread the wealth of knowledge than by opening more schools that teach using TIP's methods? This, in itself, would be a full-time job. It isn't like these people would run the school for ever anyway. Promote from within if they leave. Not a big deal.

As for the parents, maybe they cannot afford private school. It isn't their fault that the Encinitas schools are deficient in their minds. Take that up with Mr. King.

Maybe these people should have just asked for an inter-district transfer to Carlsbad where the schools are good.

Bottom Liner wrote on Mar 26, 2008 11:38 AM:I ask again, what EXACTLY are the allegations?

Public ed supporter wrote on Mar 26, 2008 11:53 AM:Schools are good? What community do you live in? We feed into high schools that have a 92% rate of students entering a four year college.
Elementary school is supposed to be about community and varied experience that lead to enthusiastic learners.
Obviously you are out of touch.

To Esteban: wrote on Mar 26, 2008 12:45 PM:Esteban, if you are a product of Encinitas schools, then you are the prime example why I wouldn't want my kids there. Maybe you should enroll in TIP to get some communication skills and writing lessons.

Good Question wrote on Mar 26, 2008 2:16 PM:Good question, Bottom Liner! Seems like no one can answer you.

Skeptical wrote on Mar 26, 2008 4:31 PM:TIP parents, I hear a lot about better education at TIP and am interested in how that is demonstrated through results. From what I can tell, the school’s standardized test scores are middle-of-the pack for the district. Are there other quantifiable results that you are using to prove that your children are getting better educations? I see postings about liking school but if that were criteria for success than Disneyland would be the place to send your kids. Likeable teachers are important but there are a lot of good, likeable, caring teachers in non-charter schools. So what makes Theory into Practice better, what data proves the theory? In an increasingly competitive world it is important that our children are able to compete with their peers from around the globe in areas like mathematics, science, etc. Is TIP creating the foundation for this success and can it be proven?

Love It…Won’t Leave It! wrote on Mar 26, 2008 6:14 PM:Posts with the EXACT allegations are not being posted because they are not making it through the NC Times filter. Parents need to explore the facts on their own, not just take what they are told by the administration as truth, question, research, discuss, question again.

Things every parent should do:


* Contact EUSD and request clarification on TIP’s current financial status with EUSD & the county.

* Contact the county and request the records for any complaint against TIP by EUSD or by any other entity. This must be provided to you via the freedom of information act.

* Contact the California Department Of Education and request status on their on-going investigation.

* Obtain a public record copy of the Cortez Hills Academy audit from SDUSD, which raises concerns about the way TIP’s COO managed that school’s financials, including a self-directed unauthorized pay raise. TIP’s administration has been unwilling to address these concerns in an open forum. Why?

* Read the TIP bylaws on the TIP web site and familiarize yourself with who sits on the board. Pay particular attention to the clauses on how the board should be made-up regarding employees, spouses of employees, etc.

* Read the proposed MOU and study what conflict of interest and self-dealing in business mean.

* Google charter law and understand the reasons for revocation of a charter.

* Google the IRS charter guidelines and look into the current status of TIP Academy and TIP Education.

Leadership and financial management start at the top with administration making decisions on when and where public funds are to be used. The top two reason charter schools fail are financial and administrative, reference data via the Center for Education Reform in Washington, DC. Your children are depending on you to do your own investigation!

Laura wrote on Mar 26, 2008 6:36 PM:Is TIP suing or being sued- I don’t know of any recent cases but I know that former charger closures like Las Banderas had some legal problems or so. Some of the TIP founders are being sued while they were at Guajome Park as far as recent claims you can google San Diego Courts and search the index I did not find any there.

There may be cases moving through and waiting while they submit a California Tort Claim (no tort claim needs to be submitted for charter schools.) Also you can check PACER to search in the San Diego Federal Court and if you are not a subscriber to pacer you can go down to UC legal library or Vista law library or the San Diego Law library.

If the EUSD is being sued along with TIP you may ask for a copy of the tort claim it is public record.

Some parents agree wrote on Mar 26, 2008 8:38 PM:Dear Skeptical,
No, there is probably nothing quantifiable that sets TIP apart from other excellent Encinitas schools. It's just that some students get immeasurably bored in a traditional setting and something more specific to their own way of learning or their own interest might just set their hearts and minds soaring. Their curiousity is somehow sparked and they want to learn and they want to go to school. It is not something to be calculated. For a parent who wants their child to love to learn, it is a joy.

Dig deeper wrote on Mar 26, 2008 9:58 PM:Addition to Love It..Won't Leave It...also check the board minutes for Colton(CJUSD) regarding SHU-Las Banderas Academy of which Hazelton was the CEO. Check the dates 1/13/05, 2/3/05, 2/17/05, 3/10/05, 3/4/05, 4/21/05 and 5/26/05. You can follow the closure of the school and why is was closed. It was finally closed for fiscal and credentialing problems. Please do your homework. There is a history of mismanagement here.

Is TIP suing or being sued? wrote on Mar 26, 2008 10:38 PM:TIP's Board of Directors Agenda for March 17, 2008, states that "Pending Legal Litigation, Case #1 and Case #2" would be discussed in closed session. A good investigative reporter is needed here to sort out fact from speculation.

Brown Act wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:26 AM:Don't they have to make part of the information regarding closed session public?

Clarity wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:49 AM:There are no current legal actions filed against TIP in state court perhaps in federal court. However if these 2 cases were filed as TORT CLAIMS I would get another lawyer that is familiar with current law. There is no requirement to file a “tort claim,” neither in state or federal court against charter schools. This is evident by the California Supreme Court’s rulings in Wells v. One2One Learning Foundation.

In the Wells, the California Supreme Court ruled that the charter schools were not “governmental entities,” for purposes of the California False Claims Act and “did not fit comfortably within any of the categories defined, for purposes of the TCA, as ‘local public entities.’”

As a result of the Wells,
On January 10, 2007, the California Court of Appeals withdrew its July 24, 2006
opinion stating that minor Courtney Knapp was required to file a tort claim before filing her case in court.
In the new ruing of January 10, 2007 minor Courtney Knapp was NOT required to file a TORT CLAIM. Knapp v. Palisades Charter High School,

Therefore, plaintiff minor Courtney Knapp in her case was NOT required to file written claims (TORT CLAIM) with the governmental agency before filing a lawsuit under the TCA against the charter school. However, if minor Courtney Knapp had also filed suit against the chartering district she would have be required to file a governmental tort claim with the school district against the school district only but NOT with the charter school.

It sounds like someone needs to get a second legal opinion and file appropriatly.

Parent wrote on Mar 27, 2008 2:50 PM:People are complaining that TIP is taking money away from other Encinitas schools. My child attends TIP (and is very happy there by the way) and parents with children in other Encinitas schools should be happy that my child as well as the other students at TIP aren't taking seats and using resources in those other schools. I too pay taxes in Encinitas and am glad that there is an alternative to overcrowding the schools. Give the school a chance. And when it comes to the location, it wasn't decided on by TIP. It was chosen by the the school district. Take up your location problems with them and leave the school alone about it. All this bickering is distracting from the main purpose here - EDUCATION. Let the school do its job - TEACHING. Our kids are going to suffer from all this negativity. Anyone is allowed to start a charter school. If you think you can do better then do it. Leave the kids alone!

Let the kids learn!!! wrote on Mar 27, 2008 4:17 PM:FYI - You don't have to be gifted to attend TIP. Any child can try to get in. All children are just treated as if they are and are not brought down to the level of the slowest child as schools are dictated to do. For the person who wrote that parents with gifted children should have their children in Private Schools, well, we all pay taxes and have a right to a good education. Not all people can afford private schools. We shouldn't have to rely on Private schools for a good education. I was thrilled to have gotten into TIP. I feel like my child is getting a good education. Isn't that a good thing? I don't understand why people aren't giving Tip a chance to make it. Maybe all those complaining just didn't make the lottery. Don't be such sore losers. Give the kids a break.

encinitasmom wrote on Mar 27, 2008 5:38 PM:I was amazed at the rude reponse to Encinitas Homeowner by Whine Whine Whine. Not a good reflection of the mentality and attitude of TIP parents. Feeling entitled much? If the Encinitas Sheriff's dept wants to make back money it's losing on red light cameras, go sit on Melba and Balour at about 8:20 a.m. on any weekday. Ticketing all the cars going 40 MPH on residential streets and rolling through stop signs should make them some money back. Heaven forbid TIP parents should be inconvenienced by other cars and pedestrians. I know this doesn't apply to everyone driving to TIP but unfortunately it's the ones that could care less about others, like Whine Whine Whine, that make a lasting impression.

You are right wrote on Mar 27, 2008 5:38 PM:To Parent. You are right, anyone can start a charter school, but that does not mean that they are qualified to actually run a school. From everything I have ever heard about the Hazelton's, opening a school is about all they are qualified to do.

Re: You are right wrote on Mar 27, 2008 6:58 PM:What is it that you ACTUALLY know about the Hazeltons? What you HEARD about them is most likely a bunch of gossip. I am not claiming to know much of anything about them and their past. Frankly, I don't care. I am pleased with the school and we are lucky to have been selected to attend. They have been working long and hard to make the school a success. All this negativity from people who really don't have a clue about is really going on and who really don't have anything to do with the school should really just find some other cause to dwell on. I believe in Sandra Kaplan's way of teaching - I heard her speak and feel lucky that my child will have an opportunity to learn following her way of teaching. Instead of basing your ideas on "what you heard" maybe you should find out the facts - that is if it really would make a difference to you. If your child isn't in the school, then you really don't have anything to worry about. It is all about the kids and their getting a good education. My tax dollars are being used wisely I believe. We are happy there so why are so many people trying to cause problems? Like I said before, the location of the school was not the choice of the school but they/we are making do. Things could be better - there could be more classrooms provided as promised. Otherwise, we are happy with our teacher and my son is learning. That is all that matters. It is about the kids.

The Kids Aren't Under Attack wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:18 PM:To Parent and Let the Kids Learn:

No one is attacking the children, they're simply questioning the administration's practices. Here's a lesson for your children: It's not o.k. to look the other way at potential corruption. It's good to question your leaders. It's fair to demand transparency and honesty.

I understand parents' desire to have their children in a quality school that differentiates curriculum, but should we all foot the bill for TIP at any cost?

I'm afraid parents are willing to let these charges slide out of fear they'll be forced to return to their neighborhood school. Come on! Demand more. You can be perfectly pleased with what's going on in the classroom, and disgusted with the administrators at the same time. If your loyalty is to your children, then stand up for what's right. If TIP is as good as the parents claim, then push for the school to continue under different administrators. (They don't have a good track record--it's bound to fail under their leadership anyway.)
The teachers are already trained. They're not going to walk out. Where would they go? State budget cuts have given you all some leverage. Use it and root out the corruption!

Some Parents Agree wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:18 PM:Dear Encinitasmom,
You are right. I think we TIP parents need to be more courteous and we need to drive more carefully and slowly through the residential streets. I for one am very sorry to disturb the peaceful neighborhood. Thanks for pointing that out.

To Let the kids learn and Parent wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:41 PM:Given that TIP is a public school the public, all of us who pay for it through our tax dollars, have the right to ask questions about the way it is operated, the people who are operating it, and the education our tax dollars are funding. If you want your kids to go to a school with no public oversight then send them to a private school. Otherwise, suck it up and start proving to the rest of us that the school is operating on the up and up.

To Re You are right wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:48 PM:It is pretty obvious haven’t take the time to discover the facts. You should take your own advice and do a little research on the Hazelton’s, read the posts in this thread, put your biases aside and prove to yourself that you are right – or wrong. Just because you like someone doesn’t mean that they are doing a good job and just because you like what someone says doesn’t mean that you should blindly follow them. None of the complaints have to do with not wanting “the kids” to get a good education; rather, they have to do with administrative concerns. If you really want to make sure TIP is around for your kids you should make the effort to verify it has a solid fiscal foundation.

Excellent wrote on Mar 27, 2008 8:24 PM:Excellent critical thinking skills! "I am not claiming to know much of anything about them and their past. Frankly, I don't care. I am pleased with the school and we are lucky to have been selected to attend. to attend."

It reminds me of another quote I once heard "I am not claiming to know much of anything about Marshall Applewhite or his past. The chocolate pudding is so good here, that I don't care. Besides, I love my purple robe and I LOVE learning all about this really cool comet".

from Los Angeles wrote on Mar 27, 2008 10:09 PM:Many of you that are happy with TIP say that you like how the kids are learning and you like their teachers (which is great!). In a previous post I told you how 6 of your staff (5 teachers and the principal) have certified on a petition that they are intending to teach at the new TIP Academy in PV if it gets approved. If they are telling the truth, then the teachers that you love are leaving Encinitas. And if they aren't being truthful about moving to PV - well, then there is an ethics/honesty problem with these same teachers. I'm not sure that's who I want teaching my kids. If you want to see the petition for TIP PV, look at our district's website (in my previous post). The petition is broken into 3 parts - the teachers signed on the last pages of the section called 'signatures.' TIP sounds good, but it seems like there is something funny going on with the administration.

To Excellent and To Re Are Right wrote on Mar 27, 2008 11:47 PM:First I want to say that I NEVER said I LIKED the Hazeltons. We have had our differences but have worked through them. Despite our differences, we are happy at the school. I do support the school and am giving them the benefit of the doubt at this point because not enough facts have been presented to me. A couple newspaper articles don't guarantee facts and I don't consider the comments here credible enough to place any sort of judgment on these people. I am not blindly following anyone I just think it is pretty horrible how this school is being attacked. The administrators have been working hard to get this school running and despite a few holes in the road - no pun intended - most hurdles have been overcome in time.

NOW- about Excellent's comment: "It reminds me of another quote I once heard 'I am not claiming to know much of anything about Marshall Applewhite or his past. The chocolate pudding is so good here, that I don't care. Besides, I love my purple robe and I LOVE learning all about this really cool comet'."

Are you kidding?? You criticize my critical thinking skills and then admit that this quote comes easily to mind?? I am not ashamed to say I had no idea who the heck this Marshall guy was until I googled him to find out just in case I was missing out on something important. NOT! I just think these comments as well as the uninformed gossip are hurtful and useless. Not constructive in any way whatsoever. I simply don't know all the facts and don't care about the gossip. I am not concerned about their past. I just want them to keep the school running and all this negativity isn't helping the kids.

NCT Please Post wrote on Mar 28, 2008 7:34 AM:AB 1772 (Garcia): Charter schools: conflicts of interest (pushed by the California Charter School Association.)
This Bill is scheduled to be heard by the California Assembly Committee on Education on April 9th 2008.

This bill would rubber stamp charter schools systemic practice to AVOID compliance with a conflict-of-interest policy applicable to ALL PUBLIC AGENCIES in the state of California that receive state and federal funds.

AB 1772 contains the following element initially introduced in two solid paragraphs. Updated to a couple of pages with a lot of mumbo junco to hid the intent of AVOIDANCE of the California Government Codes.

Under section (a) AB 1772 would allow charter schools to have 49% charter school employees working for charter schools and sitting on the Board of Directors, school site counsel, and any other committee in addition to their employment. What AB 1772 means is that the California Charter School Association wants a rubber stamp approval to continue their already systemic clandestine practices.

If you are not happy with the multiple conflicts of interest and incestuous relationships occurring in the charter schools throughout the state than you need to let your voices be heard in Sacramento. Then take action and contact the Members on the Assembly Committee on Education with Jene Mullin as Chair of the commettee.

To "from Los Angeles" wrote on Mar 28, 2008 8:35 AM:The petition states "The petitioners listed below certify that they are teachers who are meaningfully interested [in] teaching in the charter school." I added the "[in]" for clarity.

In this context, a "meaningful interest" would be one of significance and not intention as you stated above. This is standard procedure for bureaucratic documentation such as a petition, so the signatures are essentially meaningless.

One or two of the teachers on the list may actually decide to move to the new school, but TIP has an established connection with the curriculum training of Dr. Kaplan, so there will always be a fresh supply of new talent available to the school if need be.

Given what I have seen with regard to TIP PV, I wouldn't hold your breath about the school getting off the ground there anyway. The people there seem to think that a school is successful if the federally mandated test scores are being achieved. Their score are exemplary. But they don't seem to grasp that there is more to learning than performing on tests. So be it.

WWYD? wrote on Mar 28, 2008 9:26 AM:So we have options as parents at TIP. Brush it all under the rug and forget about it, believe that "LOVE can solve all things. Let's try to get along, hug an administrator, and bring some goodies to our teachers to show how much we care"(although the quality of teachers is not an issue), sing kumbaya, eat chocolate pudding, and forget this all happened. On the other hand, it is a fact that TIP is having some financial complications (and yes, sometimes they tend to be growing pains--but we need to make sure they DON'T GET OUT OF HAND). Most of us that are at TIP, regardless of our position, have happy kids, great teachers and want (and NEED) alternatives. This is a public school, not a mom and pops shop, and it is our obligation and right to oversee that everything goes well in our public school. Whether the accusations are true or not, the concerns are valid. I for one hope that TIP has a long and happy life, but the direction which it takes and those managing it is my concern.

"Think like a critic" wrote on Mar 28, 2008 10:37 AM:Here's what we know: Principal is married to the school head honcho, and they are all longtime friends with at least 2 TIP teachers and their husbands. Who do you complain to if you have a problem with the principal or a teacher? TIP's annual budget is about $1.6 million and about $200,000 of that is salary to the Hazeltons(including benefits makes it more like $300,000). The school board (i.e., Mike Hazleton) decide to save money by not buying textbooks. Is this truly based on what's best for the children's education?

teacher signatures wrote on Mar 28, 2008 9:12 PM:The Ed code says the petition has to be signed by teachers that "the Charter School estimates WILL BE EMPLOYED at the school during its first year of operation."

In signing that petition those teachers are stating that they WILL BE EMPLOYED at the school next year.

47605. (a) (1) Except as set forth in paragraph (2), a petition for the establishment of a charter school within any school district may be circulated by any one or more persons seeking to establish the charter school. ...
The petition may be submitted to the governing board of the school district for review after either of the following conditions are met:

(A) The petition has been signed by a number of parents or guardians of pupils that is equivalent to at least one-half of the number of pupils that the charter school estimates will enroll in the school for its first year of operation.
(B) The petition has been signed by a number of teachers that is equivalent to at least one-half of the number of teachers that the charter school estimates WILL BE EMPLOYED at the school during its first year of operation.
...
(3) A petition shall include a prominent statement that a signature on the petition means that the parent or guardian is meaningfully interested in having his or her child, or ward, attend the charter school, or in the case of a teacher's signature, means that the teacher is meaningfully interested in teaching at the charter school. The proposed charter shall be attached to the petition.

What to do? wrote on Mar 28, 2008 10:50 PM:Do you think Debbie and Mike are reading all this? If so, Debbie needs to go back to the classroom next year, and Mike can be the head honcho if that is what he desires so much. Anyone want to start a betting pool on what day the school will be closed down by EUSD?

Re: Only time will tell wrote on Mar 29, 2008 6:49 AM:How ironic to be critical of the standard of education when you obviously pay so little attention to spelling and grammar yourself. In particular, when CAPITALIZING words you might want to have some-one else proof-read your work (what does BELLOW average mean anyway???)

Dig deeper wrote on Mar 29, 2008 7:25 AM:Looks like the review for the TIP LA charter has been cancelled. The office of General Counsel investigated and cancelled the petition. You can call the charter school office for LAUSD and check for yourself. I wonder what they found in their investigation? LAUSD is very charter friendly, interesting that they cancelled this one? Perhaps too many of the same teachers signing multiple petitions??? Perhaps more??

Dig deeper wrote on Mar 29, 2008 7:42 AM:Looks like the review for the TIP LA charter has been cancelled. The office of General Counsel investigated and cancelled the petition. You can call the charter school office for LAUSD and check for yourself. I wonder what they found in their investigation? LAUSD is very charter friendly, interesting that they cancelled this one? Perhaps too many of the same teachers signing multiple petitions??? Perhaps more??

Results wrote on Mar 29, 2008 7:46 AM:Only time will tell brings up a good point. However, as you have read in the many posts, most TIP parents are not interested in any track records.

frustrated wrote on Mar 29, 2008 10:08 AM:Don't you understand that we don't care about track records? We only care about our school. Who cares what Mike Hazelton has done in the past. Doesn't everyone deserve a fresh start?

to frustrated wrote on Mar 29, 2008 1:10 PM:Fresh start? It looks like history is reapeating itself? Check to see what is going on with TIP LAUSD...I believe they rejected his proposal, wouldn't even look at after their "investigation". That is happening right now not in the past. How are current test scores? Financial status of school? Perhaps he is a nice guy, but nice guy doesn't always make someone a good administrator. Hmmm maybe the fresh start is not so fresh!

Frustrated wrote on Mar 29, 2008 3:39 PM:I choose to look at our glass as half full. Obviously you are choosing to see only the worst in people. I don't know what the world is coming to with all of this bitterness. LAUSD does not know what they are missing!

Only time will tell wrote on Mar 29, 2008 9:27 PM:Re: Only time will tell—-if you don’t know what “FAR BELLOW AVERAGE” means you may want to find out really quick! Particularly when it is 63% FAR BELLOW AVERAGE.

Your post demonstrates exactly why the former charter school has failed so tragically. The only response educators can come up with is by using reverse psychology and derogatory comments. Case in point based on your post.

My bottom line wrote on Mar 30, 2008 12:11 AM:Bottom line is nobody in their right mind will take their children out of TIP. This school is the best thing that has happened to these kids. The kids are so happy here and are loving to learn. Just ask them. If someone were to leave, their spot would be filled instantly. There are hundreds on the waiting list hoping someone will leave. Where else will our children find a more challenging school? It is just so sad there are a few Encinitas parents that always like to stir up trouble. They love to gossip and create any rumor (the false ones that hurt people they love the best). They are habitual complainers and nothing will ever be perfect for them. It is just standard procedure in a city like Encinitas. Big thanks to Debbie, Mike, the founding teachers, and Dr. Kaplan for creating this school and giving me a better educational option for my child.

My TIP Child has learned something wrote on Mar 30, 2008 8:42 AM:"Mommy, when I grow up I want to be a Charter School Lobbyist. My teacher said you can make lots and lots of money and so many people can get rich. Isn't that great?!"

Fundraiser wrote on Mar 30, 2008 8:47 AM:Hey everybody, please join us next week for a small fundraiser after school. The fundraiser is to help pay for further curriculum development and an upcoming salary increase. Please drive fast and park your big SUV anywhere you would like. We will be serving Kool Aid and chocolate pudding... all you can eat!

Ohhhhh wrote on Mar 30, 2008 8:59 AM:Ohhhhh, I love chocolate pudding and Kool Aid. Sign me up! Yeah for the Hazeltons!

People have left wrote on Mar 30, 2008 9:01 AM:To My bottom line: People have left and will continue to leave. Maybe they are saying the same thing, that no one in their right mind would stay at TIP. Perhaps what they are wondering the most is why their kids now so behind in basic math and grammar skills after leaving TIP.

MIKE wrote on Mar 30, 2008 9:37 AM:Hey, I'm the 100 post! Do I win a prize or get any money?

More fundraising wrote on Mar 30, 2008 3:04 PM:Along with the chocolate pudding and kool-aid, there will also be "CAR WINDOW PAINTING" for a small fee. The following captions can be painted on your minivan window:
1. Hey Mike! Show us the money!
2. We are so in love with TIP, we don't care where the money goes!
or
3. Love will save the day.
Your pick! Come one, come all.

Math wrote on Mar 30, 2008 3:06 PM:How many TIP parents out there REALLY support their math program? Are any of your kids learning skills?? My child will be SO in shock when she enters Jr. High. I'm worried!

love the math wrote on Mar 31, 2008 8:36 AM:My daughter was lost in math until she came to TIP. Now she gets it. I guess it depends on the kid. She's not good at memorization.

Enough is enough wrote on Mar 31, 2008 10:25 AM:Encinitas schools are funded through the property tax of homeowners. TIP enrolls 20% of its students from outside the EUSD district. It's outrageous that we end up footing the bill to educate out-of-district students (especially when our own schools are facing budget/program cuts). The sense of entitlement displayed by some TIP parents and their administration is shameful! If LAUSD and PVUSD found grounds to deny the charter; shouldn't EUSD be seriously looking at anything that would give them cause to revoke this charter? It sure sounds like there are plenty of questionable/unethical/corrupt things happening at this school. Usually where there's smoke, there's fire! Parent groups at our nine district schools should organize and let the district know how we feel about the way in which they spend our tax dollars.

Math is great wrote on Mar 31, 2008 10:41 AM:My son is no longer bored with math at it and is having to really analyze and think about how to solve the math problems.

filter problem wrote on Mar 31, 2008 11:23 AM:It's amazing how much gets filtered out here. I tried to send a link to a pdf that I found while researching these issues. It answers many of the questions concerning Mike (in Mike's favor). It's actually a TIP PV document, but talks a lot about TIP Encinitas.

Not with my money wrote on Mar 31, 2008 12:49 PM:Give the Hazelton's a second chance? Not with my tax dollars. You people need to go to private school and not waste my tax dollars on this experiment!

positive info on Mike wrote on Mar 31, 2008 1:01 PM:If you Google Hazelton Guajome Park, you will find a TIP PV document that answers many of the questions about Mike. I am unable to put the link here as it will not make it through the NC Times filter.

Question for Enough is Enough wrote on Mar 31, 2008 1:31 PM:Where is it documented that PVUSD denied the charter to TIP?

to "Not with my money" wrote on Mar 31, 2008 1:40 PM:Yes, with your money. Not to the Hazeltons though... the children.

The school will be fine. The children are great. The parents are supportive. The teachers are dedicated.

New administration will come anyway... M