Claire K. wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:35 PM:I am sad to see the school close. Thank you to all the people who were a positive influence in the lives of my children. I am grateful for you.

The Big Idea wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:36 PM:EUSD never got the "big idea" about this school. They should not be the leaders of a school district. Change is inevitable and EUSD needs a wake up call. Get some true "thinkers" leading the district and all students in the District will be better off. The community has been misled. EUSD used the charges to hide behind and shut down a school that they didn't want around. The TIP people are simply a wonderful and dedicated group of teachers, students and parents who wanted to have a choice. The District just couldn't handle the competition.

Stacy wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:40 PM:Glad this mess is over with. EUSD, thank you for being profession. TIP families, hope you find a good fit for your children. Hazeltons, good-bye for good.

Bravo wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:41 PM:The EUSD did they right thing. They are looking out for the best interest of the district. They should have never allowed this school to begin with!

EUSD Parent wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:43 PM:As a parent of current and past children who have gone through the EUSD system, I say thank you EUSD for the education my children received. They have down well in school and have been challenged along the way. Thank you.

what Barbara left out wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:44 PM:It was very sad to see how little the board seemed to know about the facts of the case. They each said their lines, but when they tried to veer from what they'd been scripted, they stumbled over facts and seemed to be unfamiliar with both their evidence and TIP's. They were pretty clearly just doing what King told them to do, without making the effort to look at either side very closely. Maybe they should look at what he's doing with pacific View and reconsider how trustworthy his advice is!

to big idea wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:47 PM:Thank you accented miss and the side kick Dan. We appreciate your input. Time to pack!

Question wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:48 PM:Hazelton/Bisop coup are opening a private school, but what is the latest with the underground charter in San Marcos? Anyone heard?

Thank you EUSD wrote on Aug 5, 2008 10:59 PM:I know this has been a difficult situation for you with tiresome hours. Thank you for keeping the children of Encinitas first. I understand that many TIP families feel that certain schools are not a right fit for their children. I hope they find something that works for them. Thank you though for doing the right thing for ALL of the children of Encinitas and not just a selected few. I hope this difficult situation can turn into a positive for all of the children of Encinitas.

Hum.. wrote on Aug 5, 2008 11:16 PM:"Academy attorney Lisa Corr," is this a new attorney? from what law offices?

EUSD Are the Heros Here wrote on Aug 5, 2008 11:31 PM:The whistleblowers first tried to convince parents and teachers at TIP about wrongdoings, but they weren't listened to. Only our EUSD School Board had the courage and wisdom to take action. As an EUSD parent, I regard them as the heros in this sad case. If the Board hadn't pursued the allegations, who knows how much longer it would have continued? How much more would TIP's continued misdeeds have cost the taxpayers? And if EUSD had allowed TIP to resume with new admin., what would have prevented these same parents and teachers from failing to recognize corruption in their new leaders? Thank goodness we elected a school board who didn't ignore the warning signs!

Not prepared wrote on Aug 5, 2008 11:34 PM:I'm an EUSD parent with friends at TIP. I went tonight just to see EUSD's action...a staged discussion...which they tried to act like they cared. The Board was not prepared. They couldn't even remember the details of either side. Did you all (the Board) read the documents or did you just read the blogs for info?
There are parents not happy with schools in the EUSD district too. You don't listen to us either, never return our calls or acknowledge our letters. Maybe it would be best for all the District's children to get some progressive thinkers on the Board. We need improvements all over the place and I'm not just talking about facilities!
PS-The parents and teachers only discussed issues that were relevant to them...how could they address the charges that were not made against them...plus they had no administrators and no paid administrative staff. You treated the TIP teachers, students, & parents (the biggest part of the equation) without an ounce of humanity. The decision was made without putting children first. What a joke...you shut down a good performing school? Do us parents need to remind you 4 of your schools are underperforming?

See the best in TIP wrote on Aug 5, 2008 11:41 PM:Ms. Henry you finally wrote about the school that shed some light on the positive side of the story, a school that worked well! The school was truly a gift for so many families. Too bad EUSD never got it.

shame wrote on Aug 5, 2008 11:41 PM:What a horrible outcome this is for both sides. We were all punished for the actions of 2 people who are long gone form our school. Shame on you EUSD for closing down such a wonderful school. Our kids are the ones who will suffer from this terrible act of injustice.
I cannot wait until election time, Bye Bye Board!

Shame on EUSD wrote on Aug 5, 2008 11:53 PM:There are two sides to this story. EUSD you were the judge and the jury. Some people may be fooled by you but a big part of this community knows the truth. We won't forget.

To What Barbara left out wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:11 AM:Please stop pointing the finger at King. The blame begins and ends with those who used TIP for their own personal gain.

To the Big Idea wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:17 AM:Seems to me the EUSD folks were the ONLY ones thinking! That's how they were able to catch TIP's leaders red-handed! If the community has been misled, it was not by EUSD, but by TIP, who hired their relatives at high salaries, violated open meeting laws, apparently followed "creative" bookkeeping practices, and more. If this is "competition" maybe EUSD wouldn't want to compete.

TIP's main technique was differentiation. All EUSD schools have used differentiation for years. So other than that, what specifically did TIP offer that was unique? I fear the "big idea" was that charter law allowed TIP to use public funds to run a private-like school.

Another EUSD Parent wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:36 AM:First, I should say that my children go to a local EUSD school (not TIP) and we have had a good experience. That said, I have several friends whose children are at TIP, and I've been impressed with how TIP has provided something for these families that they weren't able to find in their local school. Their children are more engaged, are learning more, and are enjoying school more. Something very good and unique has been going on there. This school has made a huge difference in their children's lives, and quite honestly, I am upset that the district did not try harder to keep this school open. I didn't get the sense that the district saw what this school was doing for the children and families that went there. The problems reported seemed much like issues that any startups face--something you work through. When you have a product people are lining up to get, you don't just shut it down.

I wish TIP the best and hope they find a supportive home where they can continue.

Heliotrope wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:54 AM:As a taxpayer whose money they mismanaged I am glad EUSD revoked TIP's charter. If they had been allowed a new administration things might have been the same or worse. And for EUSD to take over running a school it never planned for or chose to have in the first place would have siphoned funds from its other schools, especially when with state budget cuts looming.

If the teachers are that good, they will undoubtedly be hired on in a new school and children will continue to benefit from them.

Missing Piece wrote on Aug 6, 2008 4:31 AM:Many people fail to see that there were more villains involved. Many parents were constantly harrassed by TIP parents and bullied for not joining TIP. Many TIP parents continually publically denounced teachers of EUSD any chance they got. TIP was successful at putting to task EUSD into improving their plan for diversified instruction. Blame the board all you want but the majority of you caused this problem and now it is time to move on.

Very Sad wrote on Aug 6, 2008 5:03 AM:My heart is broken for my son, his fellow classmates, the teachers and the city of Encinitas. Great things were happening in the classrooms. I know my son will go on to a different school and do well because he has me to fight for him and his education. AS for the the H family.... I am sure you read this, how the heck do you sleep at night? Your dream.... Your love for children... BS!!!! Someday you will be taken down!...

John wrote on Aug 6, 2008 5:48 AM:OK good TIP is gone. Now is time for King to resign for his [allegedly] illegal operations on the Pacific View property.

Judge wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:24 AM:The Board of Encinitas School District is clearly following teachers union orders. Successful Charters display the weakness of traditional public school and must be closed. This is not an isolated incident.

Teachers union wins wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:31 AM:Score one for the teachers union.
They finally buried a school that cared more about students than teachers coffee breaks.
When will it end?

frustrated wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:31 AM:EUSD told TIP that they have not heard evidence to disprove their allegations. So in the little two minute increments, that was supposed to happen?
The TIP Board did everything the district asked. Yes, it took more than 24 day time frame that was given to TIP if is was going to be done correctly. Amending the by-laws and finding back office support took some time and research by the board. If that time was not taken, it would not have been done correctly. The TIP board also waited for the administrators contracts to expire. If they didn't, TIP would be paying out sererance packages and risking other possible lawsuits. I think that was being fiscally responsible.

Concerned wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:42 AM:I hope that the "witch hunt" that is going on to close excellent charter schools ends soon. I also hope that the media coverage over every detail of sensationalist news subsides.

Jack wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:58 AM:GO TO THE SCHOOLS IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD AND THEY WILL IMPROVE!

NO SECRET FORMULAS.

HAPPY DAY!

commentsquestion... wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:07 AM:I have heard both good and bad things about TIP...

As a teacher in a different local district, a couple things have come to mind throughout this saga:

1. You can't expect your school to be taken seriously if the people running it are exploiting its' intended purpose for their own good.

2. If you break the rules, you will be held accountable. In some cases that means that the mistakes of a few ruin something for many. Look at the corporate world for plenty of examples.

3. The comments about other EUSD schools and unions...the "coffee break" comments are so far misguided that they're laughable. There are few teachers actually like that, regardless of what Fox News and other pundits tell you to think.

4. Trying to shoot down King or the board is not a logical argument for keeping TIP.

5. Threatening the board with "we're not voting for you!" is childish. Give an overall assessment of ALL their responsibilities, and if there is someone who proves better qualified, then vote for them, but don't be a villain.

And now my question...

I heard that this school was mainly a religious school, christian-centered, that was operating on public funds.

Is this true? Please advise.

Michelle wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:08 AM:Just shows that we have a confident and effective Superintedant - Dr. King.

Thank you for being a leader on this messy situation Dr. King.

Please bring up the scores at PEC by eliminating the ALP.

Thank you!

John wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:09 AM:I have heard both good and bad things about TIP...

As a teacher in a different local district, a couple things have come to mind throughout this saga:

1. You can't expect your school to be taken seriously if the people running it are exploiting its' intended purpose for their own good.

2. If you break the rules, you will be held accountable. In some cases that means that the mistakes of a few ruin something for many. Look at the corporate world for plenty of examples.

3. The comments about other EUSD schools and unions...the "coffee break" comments are so far misguided that they're laughable. There are few teachers actually like that, regardless of what Fox News and other pundits tell you to think.

4. Trying to shoot down King or the board is not a logical argument for keeping TIP.

5. Threatening the board with "we're not voting for you!" is childish. Give an overall assessment of ALL their responsibilities, and if there is someone who proves better qualified, then vote for them, but don't be a villain.

And now my question...

I heard that this school was mainly a religious school, christian-centered, that was operating on public funds.

Is this true? Please advise.

To Teachers Union Wins wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:11 AM:If you even stepped one foot in the school, you would know that these teachers WORKED on their break and lunches, and usually stayed until 5:00. Yes, the teachers union would be scared, because these teachers put in far more hours than any teacher I have seen. With a teachers union, they are backed to be able to leave 10 minutes after the bell. And by the way, they didn't even have a coffee maker! So, I can see how the Union would be excited that TIP is no longer. They don't want the secret to get out about, about teachers working more than 10 hours a day, and ENJOYING it!

Dont let the door hit you... wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:20 AM:as you exit stage left, selfish parents of TIP....You have lots of opportunities to educate your genius children by taking them to a private school if EUSD is so vastly underperforming (which is laughable). Why the collective groan? Oh yeah, instead of us paying for your special experience, you'll actually have to foot the cost. Here's a suggestion for all of you "victims," get involved in our excellent schools and help make them better for all of the children of our community, not just your genius, upper middle class, vanilla crust babies. Social change is inevitable, but the de facto segregation of something like TIP was despicable.

Bob wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:24 AM:It's finally over.

Now it's time to return to your neighborhood school and put in the time and effort you put into tip and they will be even better.

There are many fantastic teachers at EUSD.

Time to Move Forward wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:50 AM:To Former TIP Parents: I sincerely hope that you find another school to meet your children's needs. If you are returning to an EUSD public school, we welcome you back.

To the EUSD Board: Thank you for your time and dedication to all the students of the district.

To the Former TIP Administration: Shame on you for a lack of integrity. You let down students that believed in you. Appalling.

self dealing wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:58 AM:The EUSD self-dealing decision to shut down TIP was not an act of putting children first. It was an act to protect its reputation by getting rid of a competitor who dared to challenge its standard of education In this case, the superintendent was the one who made all the calls and the board just went along.

Another example of this passive board was the recent lucrative new employment contract (staring annual salary of $205,000) awarded to the superintendent by the board if every dollars is precious to the district, it needs to look for ways to cut down its administrator’s salaries rather than shut down a high performing school. There must be plenty of talented and experienced people who will work for less, or may be, it is time to have some new board members who have a progressive view of educating our children.
Maintain the status quo and getting rid of competition will only hurt in the long run.

EUSD parents, I suggest that you go to some district meetings and voice your concerns on your children’s education. You do not have to worry that your school will be shut down at least. My experience with several of these meetings was the board and its leader team spent a lot of their time complimenting each other on what good jobs they have done

Jerry wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:00 AM:My wife and I are both surgeons at a local hospital. I believe our kids our getting a quality education at EUSD and never felt TIP was that impressive.

What really matters is the High School and the amount of AP classes offered. Of which, La Costa Canyon is excellent.

Spend time at home with your children like our parents did and great things will happen.

Another gamble wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:01 AM:TIP offered to stay for only one year and then it would close and be gone for good. Instead, EUSD, revoked the school and TIP can appeal the decision. If TIP wins, and there is a good chance they may, it will be back for 3 more years and will be getting facilities.

To Dont let the door hit you wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:07 AM:I think that door must have hit you right in the head! What makes you think that the the families of the children that went to TIP DIDN'T PAY TAXES! I know I do! I know that my friends that have children that went to TIP also pay taxes. So how exactly were we "sponging" of of YOU tax payers. It's really not "US" against "YOU! We felt betrayed by those that were "taking advantage" of the system! But, why punish the entire school? If something like this had happened at one of the EUSD public schools, they would NOT have shut it down. They would have worked hard at fixing it. This was about the money, and not about the kids, and we weren't given a chance, now that the rest of the families were made aware of what was going on, to prevent it from continuing! We were heading in that direction, and we were denied that opportunity. I laugh at that mother that told us to "stop fighting for our schools just because OUR KIDS ARE HAPPY!" DID YOU HEAR WHAT YOU SAID! Would YOU not fight for your kids happiness?

Vista wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:11 AM:Don't be dismayed TIPSTERS the Vista Unified School District will welcome you with open arms.

You can get on as an extension of Guaojome Park Academy the best charter school in the state. Where conflict of interests and nepotism rum rampant every day and nobody cares. Don't you worry about balancing the budget or regulations, come as you are policy.

Give the VUSD a call and they will hock you up right away no paper work required just give them a 3% of the revenues and they will keep things hush, hush...

To dont let the door hit you wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:12 AM:Just some comments in defense of myself and other parents at TIP. Do you have any idea how dumb you sound when you spout off about something you have no clue about? Up until now, I have kept quiet, but that comment was the last straw!
I have a child with a normal IQ, not gifted, she just happens to not do well with closed ended intruction (go figure). Upper middle class, not so for me and a lot of families at TIP. As far as vanilla crusted kids, not so either, and a very racist comment I might add.
Oh, I did put a lot of time and energy into my EUSD school before I left for TIP, all of us did. hen you have children with different learining needs, you have no choice but to put time in, it can be exhausting, but for your child, you seek what is best, and that was TIP.
Thanks for a great 1 1/2 years. We will truly miss our school.

To John wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:12 AM:TIP was not a religious school. They didn't suppress any opinions either. I'd love to try to improve my "local" school, but there's too much bureaucratic BS to make changes happen in time to benefit my children right now!

To John wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:18 AM:Thanks a lot for the slams, we really needed that right now on the morning that we have to tell our children that a school that they loved and were thriving in is going to close.

In answer to your question about TIP being a religious school. No, we are not Christian based, just dedicated to finding a better fit for our beloved children.

The Big Picture wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:25 AM:It's evident the EUSD board had a single goal; eliminate TIP. Never wanted it and now they have their wish. If their slogan “it’s all about the kids” is really true, this school would remain open. Granted, the leaders of this school were crooks for lack of a better term, but if it’s all about the kids, then keep the school open. It’s a proven success from an academic standpoint.

That is the big picture – a higher education. Just look at the test results and compare with other schools.

Enough said.

Cardiffian wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:40 AM:It is both a sad day and a happy day when greed and arrogance receives its comeuppance. A happy day because those who are guilty finally get their due in front of all to see. Sad because those who bore the brunt of ensuring the success of the miscreants with hard work and idealism suffer so greatly.

Blessing in disguise... wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:43 AM:Now that EUSD has made its predictable move life can go on. There will always be questions as to the motives behind the closure of what, even its detractors have admitted, was a positive learning environment.
The dedicated teachers that gave up years of tenure to join the TIP staff and the children, including two of my own, that learned, laughed and lived the TIP way have been shown a valuable life lesson.
Money, unions and personal vendettas trump common sense and fairness every time. See you at the ballot box EUSD or NOT!

EUSD parent wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:43 AM:"To the Big Idea" had it right, as well as "Don't let the door hit you." As the parent of a child that switched from a private to a public EUSD school the year TIP started, I was watching the progress of TIP to see if it was appropriate for my son. From the beginning, it looked like a way for a select few Encinitas parents (and outsiders) to use public funds so that they wouldn't have to pay for a private school. "Founders" children did not need to participate in the lottery--they were guaranteed admittance. If we need a special program for gifted students, let's all work with the EUSD schools--let's not just set up a special school for our precious few, so that their parents don't have to pay tuition. What a great deal they had for two years, free "private" schooling. I feel sorry for the students that now have to change schools, but all the financial misdeeds, patronage, etc... did happen on their parents' watch.

Thank You EUSD wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:47 AM:1. TIP never outright denied the allegations.
2. TIP never showed evidence to disprove these serious charges, any one of which should have shut them down.
3. TIP is spending countless hours waging a smear campaign against Dr. King and threatening the Board "come election time."

EUSD did the right thing in revoking TIP's charter and I am so grateful to have people of integrity on the board and leading the district. Thank you, EUSD

Hey Bob wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:48 AM:Don't you think that the TIP parents already had the experience of trying local schools before taking a chance on something new? Parent's across this state are leaving in droves because they don't have any real control over their local schools. I know, because I've made the same decision, and I'm from a family that has a long history of supporting the local public school, even to the point of having a father that once was on a school board.

Wake up and smell the coffee. The CTA controls education in the state of California, not the parents. And their main goal, first and foremost, is to make sure the teachers are taken care of, not the students. If you get a good teacher, then your lucky and you don't know what I'm talking about. But when you get a bad one, and your helpless to change anything, maybe then you'll understand. And when the kid comes home in tears, along with their 5 hours of homework, then you'll start looking for alternatives as well.

In this case, the district had already made up it's mind months ago that the school would be shut down. They gave the school a long list of things to fix, and from what I have read, they met their demands. So why give them a list of things to do and then not follow through when they did them? The obvious answer is they never intended to let the school continue anyway. There's an old saying about throwing the baby out with the bathwater. Well, the district just emptied the biggest bathtub I've ever seen, and the bathwater was only an inch deep.

Lastly, for all those that keep saying the school was taking money from the district, educate yourself. The only way the district would get this money is if the parents send there kids back to EUSD schools. Do you really believe that the vast majority of these parents will EVER send there kids to a school in this district again? Not a chance.

fear and jealousy wrote on Aug 6, 2008 9:50 AM:We should not let our fear and jealousy take over our rational thinking. We see many examples in history with grave consequences. TIP‘s treatment is an example in a very minute scale. When did the country embrace the practice of collecting punishment?

Tax Payer wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:00 AM:At last, the predictable end result caused by individuals abusing their power.

To HEY BOB wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:20 AM:Re: Parent's across this state are leaving in droves because they don't have any real control over their local schools

This is not true. There is still a positive net migration into California every year.

The bottom line is that people will return to their EUSD schools and life will go on. It's not the end of the world as you try to skew us into believing. You can whine all day but it changes nothing.

This is EUSD - not Logan Heights. You will get an AWESOME education here. BTW, they will all end up at the same Middle and High schools.

Im a Taxpayer wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:28 AM:I had one child at TIP, and I had another ready to start. I own my own home, and pay HUGE property taxes, income taxes...taxes, taxes, and more taxes. Exactly how am I NOT contributing to the schools! How is it that we're being accused of "leaching" from the district. I know other families that go to TIP and they pay their taxes too! Quit making yourselves sound like you're being taken advantage of. My kids went to a public school that for a while had the GREAT idea of testing kids for GATE, and then placing them in a classroom where they could benefit from a more challenging curriculum, and then they got rid of that plan. WHY? That was the straw that broke the camels back. And, it STILL was not as good as what they were doing at TIP.

EUSD Right All Along wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:32 AM:To The Big Picture: If you "knew" EUSD had "a single goal" to shut down TIP, why on earth didn't you make sure your school was run properly? And why did you look the other way while your leaders were apparently violating state laws and the charter? If you knew EUSD was out to get you, you couldn't have given them more cause!

Here's the real story: EUSD expressed concern from the outset whether or not TIP would be viable. TIP's actions proved their worried as justified! EUSD didn't make them carry out their misdeeds, TIP did that all on their own!

EUSD Right All Along wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:34 AM:To The Big Picture: If you "knew" EUSD had "a single goal" to shut down TIP, why on earth didn't you make sure your school was run properly? And why did you look the other way while your leaders were apparently violating state laws and the charter? If you knew EUSD was out to get you, you couldn't have given them more cause!

Here's the real story: EUSD expressed concern from the outset whether or not TIP would be viable. TIP's actions proved their worries as justified! EUSD didn't make them carry out their misdeeds, TIP did that all on their own!

Take responsibility wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:38 AM:The TIP board/aministrators knew the success of the charter school would be an uphill battle from DAY ONE. They should have ensured that all financial and administrative issues should have been proper and above board from DAY ONE. Parents complain the board/administrators didn't have enough time to clean up their act. It should have been clean from DAY ONE.

all these parents wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:48 AM:complaining about Tip and the wrong doing and just how bad change is....seem to have read the same old script that EUSD has written and read time and time again at each and every meeting. It is time to get some new actors and a new script. This is all very old and with so many half truths and blatant lies.
We the parents at Tip get it already!!! WE were mean to the whistle blowers,(if they had only come to us first, things would have been different) We did not have 2 people sign checks(if we knew there was a problem we would have been there) two sets of bylaws(if we would have known)
Anyway we will be happy, thank you!! I can not wait for the next chapter, so looking froward to life without EUSD.
Many of us will not resort back to your WONDERFUL schools, nor will our tax dollars....Sorry

Liars wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:57 AM:The EUSD board looks amazingly like the board that it says that it's saving us all from. TIP made mistakes and was asked to remedy them. After doing so, it became evident that the EUSD never had any intention of reviewing, let alone considering the changes made.

They were lying from the beginning right through to the end. The funny part is that they aren't even good at it.

not a chance wrote on Aug 6, 2008 11:24 AM:You can change principals and teachers and resource people all that you want, but that still does not change the fact that you are EUSD. That you can't change. I will taking my children far, far away from your wonderful schools. My children do still play with your kids, because they are truly wonderful, it is never the kid's fault.

A Something to Think About wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:01 PM:This entire ordeal was frustrating, saddening, infuriating and very difficult to watch. My kids went to EUSD schools for 5 years. I experienced caring, compassionate and excellent teachers and administration.

I think most people see that there are two sides to this issue and though saddened for the children of TIP Academy, understand that the EUSD Board did the right thing. There are many many legalities involved and for anyone to make an accurate judgment call on EITHER side would need to spend hours pouring through the details.

This issue was far too important and ran far too deep for anyone to take lightly. I am proud of our Board for taking it seriously and acting in the best interest for ALL of the Encinitas tax payers.

Yes...there are people in public education that are just plain anti-charter. Charter schools are threatening to some people. Then there are people who are so pro-charter that they are willing to overlook severe flaws in their school's administration. Dr. King and our Board would be very foolish to revoke a charter illegally or do anything that resembles a personal vendetta.

The sad truth of this whole matter is that the Hazeltons took advantage of some very sincere parents and teachers. From what I've read...this isn't the first time. I hope that they face a real judge and jury this time and are finally held accountable for their criminal actions!

The Board is extremely aware of the fact that they are elected officials, which makes their decision even more credible. It seems to me that they risked stirring up a hornet's nest by provoking this small band of irrational parents. (I am NOT referring to ALL T.I.P. parents...only the ones that have been displaying their hatefulness on this blog.) I'm sure the current board members will have a run for their money during the next school board election.

So...can we please stop the hateful accusations and be reasonable citizens? I fear we are not putting our children first when we spew hate. Even if you view this on par with a natural disaster, aren't we supposed to shelter our children from life's storms and reassure them that all will be o.k.? I wonder how a 5th grader re-entering his/her neighborhood school feels about the inferior education he/she must know tolerate AND respect? (well, gee...at least that's what's been talked about at the kitchen table for the last few weeks!) Something to think about as you prepare your child for the upcoming school year at EUSD.

To Hey Bob wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:06 PM:Please speak for yourself. We will be sending our children back to our EUSD school and we know many, many families who are planning to do the same. I am very sad that TIP is closing; but, I am also happy that I will no longer be lumped in with all these other TIP families that this community loves to hate. After reading some of your comments, I can see why we all have such a bad reputation. It's embarrassing!

Lynne wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:46 PM:Yes, I will actually give my name.

We have a daughter at Ocean Knoll who has done fabulously well being given differentiated instruction. The best thing about her experience is that she absolutely LOVES school because of the awesome teachers at OK. Our son will start kindergarten there on the 18th.

I was happy to read to the end...that the situation does have a happy ending...that some of those who were at TIP and who live in Encinitas plan to go back to their neighborhood schools. I welcome you.

You can enrich our kids with your kids' learning styles, questions, and way of thinking...likewise, we can help you to find a place where you feel comfortable asking for more challenges for your kids.

This is why we initially looked at TIP--like all parents of incoming kinders, we thought our daughter was gifted, too! We have been so happy at Ocean Knoll that we turned down a spot at TIP two years in a row.

Welcome back--you will be pleased with what you find...amazing teachers & administrators who work hard to help create a place where your kids can learn to fly high.

good bye wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:55 PM:and good and good luck!! I sure hope that I will not have to hear you complain in the near future just how bad it is! Our new alternatives will be wonderful and we do not need any of you thorns in our sides. I hear the Hazletons are offering scholarships for those of you who are interested in a great curriculum and super honest teachers. From what they tell us when the recruit us that they will turn no one away. Sounds to good to be true!

Bob wrote on Aug 6, 2008 12:57 PM:The Charter for North County is looking for board members are you game?

to Lynne wrote on Aug 6, 2008 1:01 PM:So glad to hear of someone who is actually happy where they are. Seems to be few and far between in these blogs.

Love Encinitas Teachers wrote on Aug 6, 2008 1:03 PM:To those of you that speak with disregard for Teachers and their Unions. Encinitas teachers AND Encinitas support staff had NOTHING to do with the Hazeltons taking advantage of all of you parents and children which is so unfortunate. To the comment of the teachers and staff not working 10 hour days without complaining? Are you joking? Drive by any school at 6:30 in the morning, drive by after 5pm, drive by on weekends, special events, back to school night, etc. You will see teachers and staff alike working hard and loving it. TIP Parents we welcome all of you back, especially your children. We are dedicated parents and employees...just open your eyes.

SAD FOR EUSD wrote on Aug 6, 2008 1:17 PM:This is a sad day in Encinitas, not just for the children of TIP but for children of EUSD. A curriculum that was working for all students including add,adhd,anxiety, auditory processing and GATE intelligence has been thrown out. These students will come back to home schools still needing funds....this time for Resource. TIP did not need a large resource center. They had a curriculum that worked for everyone. We would have learned this curriculum from them if we had one ounce of interest in children and education. Only people who ever took the time to care and step on the TIP campus would have known this. My kids fit into cookie-cutter EUSD model and they remain in their home site..but I have enough love for education and kids to believe in keeping good curriculum in the family, as well as quiet and peaceful non-openended education for children in need of it. Only non-educators would throw out education. Only the people who never visited TIP would mistakenly think that parents were there for selfish means. Their children had finally found a place in the system. I had truly hoped that our board and our Teacher Union would turn out to be educators.
This is a sad day for all parents who realize the ramifications of this outcome.

Fact or Fancy wrote on Aug 6, 2008 2:12 PM:To Sad for EUSD: You claim EUSD schools are "cookie cutter" while TIP worked for "all students including ADD, ADHD, anxiety, auditory processing and GATE intelligence" Are you suggesting that in 9 EUSD schools, with 20-30 teachers in each school, all teach exactly the same, never employing differentiation, different techniques and methods that they are trained in? Yet TIP worked for every student, regardless of any and all challenges ? How did you manage to observe all these scores of teachers and assess the thousands of students to determine these sweeping claims?

Could it be that you are basing your claims on an emotional belief rather than actual facts?

Hey Bob wrote on Aug 6, 2008 3:12 PM:Parents are leaving the regular public schools in droves, not the state. The number of both charter schools and students that attend them is getting bigger each year, as the number of parents that care run into more and more opposition from the very schools they once supported. We'll see how many really go back to EUSD, and for how long if they do. The insane way education is handled in CA is getting worse, not better.

And as I said, some are lucky that they don't run into what so many of us have. And if you feel your kids get what they need at the regular schools, then that is fine too! But as for me, I'm about as done with them as I could be.

BTW, I've nothing to do with TIP or EUSD, and am watching this whole thing from afar. If the former leaders of this school are crooks, then prosecute them. But to shut the school down like this is just plain wrong. They wouldn't have treated their own school this way, and they shouldn't have treated this school this way.

to Sas for EUSD wrote on Aug 6, 2008 3:35 PM:You are right; it is a sad day in Encinitas. The TIP children have lost a school that was working for them.
But, why in the world would anyone blame the teachers' union? They had absolutely nothing to do with this situation. They were never even consulted on any of this, right from the start. They were not in the picture. It is a sad day, but don't blame it on the Encinitas teachers.

Third time asking wrote on Aug 6, 2008 3:54 PM:Have the Hazeltons been prosecuted? If they did something criminal, they should be. Anyone know?

Backbone wrote on Aug 6, 2008 3:59 PM:at least EUSD has one. The same thing is happening with JUHSD and Eagles Peak. But JUHSD Board doesn't have what it takes to do its job, apparently EUSD does.

Hey, JUHSD! Take a look at how a real school board does their job.

Tips loss is your gain wrote on Aug 6, 2008 4:01 PM:There is one good outcome for the EUSD parents from this TIP saga. It is not the money as the district will only get its share of money based on the average daily attendence. However, the district will be more attentive to parents' concerns as they know it takes a lot of resources to fight off competition and quality may be the surest way to keep their monopoly.

to Tips loss is your gain wrote on Aug 6, 2008 4:57 PM:You must be new here. Don't hold your breath!

To Third Time Asking wrote on Aug 6, 2008 6:11 PM:I have been wondering the same thing. I keep reading that the Hazeltons did horrible things. Why aren't they being prosecuted?

To Third Time Asking.. wrote on Aug 6, 2008 7:40 PM:At this point they haven't, in fact they're moving forward and opening a private school in San Marcos. HA! imagine that, giving money to the Hazeltons to teach your children. NO WAY!!

Glad its over wrote on Aug 6, 2008 8:46 PM:At least now our tax dollars won't be funding an elitist school....

Good luck to all you in your new private school!

thank god this joke is over wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:05 PM:Intellectually gifted student?? Are you kidding? Most of the bozos I know who yanked their kids out of our local EUSD schools have children who were no more 'gifted' than a mediocre student. TIP parents need to get over themselves and their whacko liberal idealogy.

If you don't like the schools, pay for a private school or help fix the public one you are supposed to attend.

Nitas wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:24 PM:Encinitas City Council candidate Bob Nanninga is asking all parties to come clean about who knew what and when regarding the Naylor Act and rezoning efforts by the Encinitas Unified School District in their attempt to develop the Pacific View Elementary school site .

yes wrote on Aug 6, 2008 10:43 PM:What is known about this hush, hush job? Mr. King is everything transparent? Can you be trusted? After seeing everything go down lately I believe that it is safe to say eh NO!

Time for Change wrote on Aug 6, 2008 11:08 PM:If you all feel strongly about how the EUSD board and Dr King have kept this process one-sided - then put your name in the hat for the new board election - there are 2 spots available, and only one challenger has entered her name (Mary Page) so far - make your vote count!! August 8th is the deadline. Currently Dr King's contract has been extended to 2012 by the board.

to thank god this job is over wrote on Aug 7, 2008 4:36 AM:you completely miised the point. TIP is unique because it embraces the academically rigorous California GATE Standards for all students regardless of their gifted ness. Its belief is that both gifted and other students can and will exceed beyond mastery of the basic curriculum if they are provided learning experiences designed to meet their needs. Parents put their kids at TIP because the school is a better fit for their children than their district schools, not just that their kids are more gifted than others.
As for going to private schools, there are few of us who can afford private tuition as you know and charter schools do give parents a choice in public education. You should applause those parents who take charge of their children's education and sometimes to the extend that you perceived as "liberal idealogy".

elitist wrote on Aug 7, 2008 5:35 AM:Elitists, are we in a political debate? We are talking about closing some children's school on the biased and unchallenged decision of the EUSD district.

TIP did not operate like a private school. The children’s playground was a fenced in parking lot at St Mark for the first year. We were thankful that the church could accommodate us. For two years, my child's classroom was half the size of a regular classroom because the district refused to acknowledge the actual numbers of the district students enrolled at TIP and did not allow the school to put up more portables for extra classrooms even at the school expense. I was amazed at the ways the teachers engaged their students so they would not get into each other's way in such closed space.

My point is, the only thing that you may think TIP operates like a private school is its teaching. Even if I could afford private school for my child I still prefer TIP because its curriculum and I want my child be with children from average working families like myself who are passionate about their children’s education.

tried to change ideology wrote on Aug 7, 2008 7:40 AM:The concept of TIP Academy was to teach GATE standards to ALL kids. How is that elitist? Most schools pull out their gifted students and teach them separately or give the gifted students different assignments and other kids rarely have the opportunity to encounter the GATE standards.

James wrote on Aug 7, 2008 9:35 AM:There will be another wonderful school to replace this one. Everything happens for a reason! Trust & Believe in the Higher Powers that be!

"LOVE&LIGHT",JAMES!

To Tried to Change Ideology wrote on Aug 7, 2008 10:42 AM:Your name is a good example of why TIP is elitist.
By "trying to change ideology" you appear as gratuitously self-appointed "saviors" forcing yourselves on EUSD—a very high-performing, and well respected district state-wide. (Note: TIP's API score fell only in the middle range of EUSD schools.) TIPsters run-down the EUSD schools, arrogantly labeling them "one size fits all" and "boring," without any evidence that all EUSD teachers in all schools in fact teach the same way. They denounce "traditional schools" and tout TIP as "revolutionary" yet when pressed, they reveal their method is differentiation, also used by EUSD. TIPsters put down our school board who had the foresight to get to the bottom of allegations of wrongdoing at TIP, as "old" and "out of touch" when what they mean is they weren't willing to risk our tax dollars again during a state budget crisis.

Finally, TIP's attitude that EUSD owes them more time, money, facilities and adulation, that serious misdeeds were "administrative problems" and that for 258 kids they take $1.7 million away from the 9 schools EUSD already had, with a relatively high out-of-district enrollment, makes them appear to have an air of entitlement that is offensive and elitist.

Fufi wrote on Aug 7, 2008 1:40 PM:I love Dr. King. I wish I were him.

This is what my child gets to deal with wrote on Aug 7, 2008 5:22 PM:So when my child starts and his home base school he is going to get to deal with people who judge. More then half of you judge us Tip parents with out even knowing us. That makes me sick! I am a normal person just like you who only wants the best for my children. Not all children think alike not all parents act or parent alike. So juge me but let me tell you I will knock down ANY person, teacher, child or blogger who judges my child. The child did no wrong... Most of the parents did no wrong... The H family thats a different story and I really really hope they are taken DOWN!!! Dr. King why not put efforts into taking the people who did the wrong down???? Too busy with your secert plans to sell off an old school?

To Time For a Change wrote on Aug 8, 2008 5:24 PM:Mary Page from Ocean Knoll? Rock on! She has been great about the entire TIP experience. I love that lady! I'm absolutely voting for her if the rumor is true. How do you know this for fact? It's good news for everyone if she's running!