Vista Teacher wrote on Aug 30, 2008 8:49 PM:O'Reilly said, "The union picked the candidates because they have proven to be avid supporters of public education, while the other candidates have not."

Ms. O'Reilly, as I recall Dr. Lilly had done nothing at VUSD prior to his retiring from CSUSM. Yet, you claim he'd "proven to be an avid supporter of public education." I also note that Patty Anderson teaches at CSUSM and also teaches teachers there as did Lilly. I'm also aware of quite a few wonderful teacher training opportunities that Patty Anderson helped some of my fellow teachers here at VUSD get involved with. As one of those whose funds you are spending to support other candidates I feel slighted that you would choose to support a couple of PTA parents over one of our own sisters who has spent so much of her own time helping her brothers and sisters to improve the education we are providing. Could this be why you don't want her on the board: Patty Anderson actually delivers where for the last 20+ years all you've done is talk?
By the way, the only reason Patty Anderson agreed to run again is because I and many of my fellow teachers asked her to! And, Ms O’Reilly, we are working from the inside to take back our Union: one member at a time! Quality Education requires Quality Teachers and we know who the slackers are. See you at the water cooler!
VT

Samuel wrote on Aug 30, 2008 9:01 PM:Let me get this straight! The VTA shuns a teacher that is a dues paying union member in favor of two that aren’t? What a farce! Hey, CTA; how about an investigation into the violation of union bylaws and/or rules?

Registrar of Voters Employee wrote on Aug 30, 2008 9:35 PM:Technically speaking if Chunka is an Instructional Aid teaching at VUSD she will need to resign her position immediately as she stands to gain by the Elected Office for which she is running. She also has an unfair access to School Information that other Candidates do not have.
From what I understand Jaka sits on some VUSD School Committees, here again she needs to resign (if only temporarily) from these committees as her running for office could impact the decisions made by those committees.
When dealing with Public Office we need to ensure that no Candidate is provided any unfair advantage, which is why Candidates are required to divest in anything they own or are a party too prior to filing for election.
That said it has always been a question as to whether a parent of a current child in a District should be prohibited from running, as they would certainly be biased toward their own child if they sat on the Board. But, since Schools Boards are to represent the public that is receiving the benefit of the taxpayers funds, as well as those who are paying them, prohibiting parents from running does not fit.
But, current teachers working at a District must take a leave of absence to run, so why not and Instructional Aid, or a Committee Member?

Vista parent wrote on Aug 30, 2008 9:44 PM:To Vista Teacher (yeh right!) and Samuel:
You two are just mean spirited! Chunka and Jaka are two moms who just want what is best for their children. Like any good parent they just want to ensure that their children get the best education possible. So, we can be sure that if they are on the board they will help those teachers and those school where it will do the most good, especially where their children are concerned. That is what this is all about! Why should my child have to give up her classroom materials or her teacher, or her principal just because the district says so? Chunka and Jaka will make sure that doesn't happen again!

Really wrote on Aug 30, 2008 10:41 PM:To Vista Parent. Vista Teacher and Samuel are not wrong! They hit the nail on the head! You have been misinformed! If Jaka wanted so much better for the children of this District, why did she do everything in her power on the BOC to build everything BUT the Dual Magnet High School until the funds were almost gone? Also, why did she do everything she could to assist in the dismantling of the Middle School Honors Program? Yes, I can see how important all of the children of the district are to her! Not! The only children that are important to her are the ones who know how to read and speak English. Also, I agree with the Registrar Employee. I believe that it is an unorthodox practice to run for office and still be either on the dole as an employee (Chunka) or involved with the BOC (Jaka). In reality, why should we be worried about Jaka, she only finished dead last in the last election, right after an 18 year old. Hmmmmm.

Another Vista Parent wrote on Aug 30, 2008 10:52 PM:I have learned from the past to never trust the VTA. Putting our children first has never been their objective. Re electing Lilly is a waste of time. Can anyone tell me what he has done for this district? Guffanti will always get my vote. Time and time again he puts our kids first and always trys to help the parents when no one in the district would.

Unbelievable wrote on Aug 30, 2008 11:53 PM:"Vista Teacher" is no Vista Teacher! What a sham. Stop with the farce. It misleading and destructive. But, alas, that is your point, isn't it?

Vista supporter wrote on Aug 30, 2008 11:59 PM:I support the Vista Teacher's union. I have had the misfortune of attending the school board meetings on a regular basis. It's embarrassing. I believe the union and the teachers of Vista know the truth of what is happening here. I plan on support the candidates that endorse and working to remove Guffanti from the school board. He is the most destructive influence I have seen. My children deserve better.

To Vista parent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 4:44 AM:The problem with two parents on the school bord for their own children is that their are over 22,000 other children that have no one to represent them. I am sure their kids will get the best of everything if they are on the board. It will just be at the expense of everyone else.

VistaTeacher Please Read wrote on Aug 31, 2008 7:57 AM:Thank you! I wish I knew who you were. I teach on one of the largest Vista campuses and I, along with six colleagues that I know of, are so embarrassed by the VTA. Except for one, all of our site reps are the laziest teachers I've ever met. It's a shame. The president of the union presents herself like a slob and has bad grammar. All six of us are younger teachers who feel no connection with these tired old hacks who seem more interested in job protection than education. This union can't even bargain a contract for the teachers, but they want to spend thousands of dollars that get deducted from our paychecks to support candidates that we wouldn't vote for. Where can Vista teachers who are against our current union find one another?

Really wrote on Aug 31, 2008 8:37 AM:So the mean and terrible VTA members spend money on the election. Let's see these are teachers who work in the district most of whom live in the district and most of their children attend school in the district. How very rude of them to care enough about the school board to actually donate money.

Ron wrote on Aug 31, 2008 8:39 AM:As is the usual practise for the VTA, Vista Teachers Association (VTA), they are attempting to garner the three member voting block that will make sure they are able to secure their political and policy views.

One can not help but notice the choices here. Nothing against Ms. Chunka, but an instructional aid? When VTA had the chance to get a really qualified person like Patty Anderson?

I've always not liked this idea of being able to choose one's boss, or fellow negociator on pay raises, benefits, and the like.
The VTA always tried to secure this three member voting block, holding over the head of a selected board member that We got you here, and we will take you out, if we have to.
How in the heck can any person be objective while negociating across the table from the same Union leadership who got you the job?
This has been how the VTA has successfully ruled VUSD for more than 16 years now.

Taxpayer wrote on Aug 31, 2008 8:52 AM:The fact the teacher’s union endorses these candidates is reason enough to vote against them. Let the chant “anybody but them” ring throughout the land. If not, you subject us all to higher taxes for the higher pay and greater benefits, added to what is already great pay and benefits packages, for years to come. I know they will say; “it’s for the kids”. Okay, let the union give up something “for the kids”, otherwise the only thing we leave our kids is an indebted, bankrupted community.

vusd mom wrote on Aug 31, 2008 9:37 AM:I don't understand the ranting and raving against our childrens teachers. We love and support our teachers on a daily basis in the classroom. We trust them to guide our kids in learning.

Now as a group, these same teachers are interviewing school board candidates and assessing which are the best for our district. These teachers are willing to put their own money and time into the process. They are going to put time and effort into supporting their chosen candidates. And for this, we villify them? Instead we parents and community should be out there supporting these decisions.

Whats better: candidates that have shown they care about our district -- Jaka, Chunka, and Lilly or the others? Jaka and Chunka have spent years representing the parents through work on school site councils, PTA, fundraisers, and other numerous events. I know that they will do good things for my children. And Lilly at least voted for our new high schools and can ask good questions.

In contrast, if Guffantii, Anderson, and their colleague Fernandez are elected, you can say goodbye to the new high schools. Who cares about our kids when principles are maintained:private schools over public schools, lindamood bell testing at the expense of everything else, and saving a few remaining dollars in the bond budget and dooming 7000 high school students to overcrowded schools.

Really wrote on Aug 31, 2008 9:48 AM:Has Patty Anderson ever run for school board on a ticket supported verbally and financially by Guffanti?

VUSD teacher wrote on Aug 31, 2008 9:50 AM:Notice that Vista Teacher never says that he teaches in the VUSD. Could he be posting under false pretenses?

Interesting wrote on Aug 31, 2008 10:02 AM:Vista Teachers Please Read was allowed to post the following comments at 7:57am.

"The president of the union presents herself like a slob and has bad grammar."

"site reps are the laziest teachers I've ever met."

"tired old hacks who seem more interested in job protection than education."

Funny that name calling with words like "slob," "laziest," and "tired old hacks" gets posted. I am sure it was in error. The other side would never post comments about Guffanti or Anderson like those. It is always a surprise to how low some can go in a discussion that should be about education and education philosophy.

Vista Teacher wrote on Aug 31, 2008 10:47 AM:You already know six others. Seven is a good and lucky number. After many years of teaching I've found the best thing is to keep your students first. We are professionals who love what we do for children. The smiles and joy we see each day as our students explore, question, discover and learn cannot be replaced or discouraged by a few who would tarnish our lives by their personal grievances. Do not belittle your fellow teachers who have been beaten down over the years by those with their own agendas. Rather, show them there is still hope: the same hope we see each day in the faces that come into our classrooms. Stand tall and show your pride, do not back down to the vocal few. You are seven, but there are so many more. Take the lead and speak out and your seven will soon become the majority. That leadership and pride you show for the job you do each day will carry forward to your students and show them the hope we all know is contained in their futures. Talk freely and openly of your beliefs and challenge those who would stand against you. You will find they are hollow, standing behind a mask that has no value. The time is now to take back our classrooms and our Union Leadership.

To Please Read wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:00 AM:Q: "Where can Vista teachers who are against our current union find one another?"

A: In the classrooms, the halls, and the teacher's lounge.

Outspent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:10 AM:Has Guffanti ever been outspent by the teachers of the district? My memory says no. For all the fake outrage about teachers spending money on the school board campaign, I do not remember a single time in last twenty years where the "anti" group did not out spend the teachers.

Where does all of the campaign money that Guffanti and company spend come from? As I recall more than 80% of it comes from OUTSIDE our district. Who are these OUTSIDE donors that Guffanti is indebted to? What is their OUTSIDER agenda for our VUSD schools? What will the tens of thousands of dollars that those OUTSIDERS are spending to elect Guffanti buy those OUTSIDERS?

Joanne wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:17 AM:With all that we know Patty Anderson went through during the last election it takes real guts to run again. She reminds me of Gov. Sara Palin (didn’t she get her start on a school board?). You go girl! You’ve got my vote!

To Outspent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:41 AM:When Union supported candidates do no fund raising and you cmpare only the funds they spent compared to those spent by their opposition then you are right that they have out spent the union suported candidates. BUT, when you look at the UNION's expenditures for each of these campaigns you find they spent more than all the others put together. And where did the Union get its funds: half was taken by force from their members and the rest comes directly from the CTA (who own and operate teh state in Sacramento). Teacher giving "freely" to support their candidates of choice (or one blogger states). You have no choice if you want to teach at a Union School. you must join the union and your dues get used against you. Ever try to "Opt Out"? They have made it so difficult that it is nealy impossible, and you have to re apply every time for every election or campaign. The CTA actauly over $100M to fight a bill that would have required teacher to "Opt In" rather than "Opt Out." Why? Because teh Union knows that they will loose most of their funds if teachers had a choice! No, they run the schools with a heavy fist and we are given no voice and no academeic freedom! By the way, VTA did NOT put the candidates to vote by the rank and file. If they had the outcome would be much different!

Vista Teacher wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:50 AM:To VUSD Teacher:
1. I have many times mentioned that I teach within VUSD: If you'd been keeping track you'd know that I even knew David Hubbard as a student.
2. I know more about this District than most others because I've been a part of VUSD longer than most.
3. How do you know that I'm not a "SHE"? Ever check the statistics of women vs. men teaching at VUSD?
See you around campus!
VT

To VistaTeacher Please Read wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:59 AM:You and the other teachers at your site who do not want to be part of a union can teach at charter schools - namely, Guajome Park Academy. The teachers there do not belong to VTA. Though, those who wanted to remove VTA membership several years ago sang a different tune when they realized how vulnerable they could be without that sort of protection.

To Vista Teacher Please Read wrote on Aug 31, 2008 12:00 PM:For the person writing as "VistaTeacher PleaseRead"

You wrote an awkward sentence ending with the following poor grammar:

"presents herself like a slob and has bad grammar."

Correct grammar calls for the word "as" before the use of your rather juvenile insult, "a slob".

Peace and Health

woody wrote on Aug 31, 2008 12:09 PM:All you haters and dividers are part of the past.Kids and parents need to take control back.Gufanti and Gibson use their positions as a bully pulpit.. Try going to a board meeting.. Its olny about them Not the students and parents!!!!! All kids deserve a world class education. This is about the future>>>

Outspent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 12:24 PM:To "To Outspent"

You did not answer the question, who are the outsiders who election after election outspend the teachers of the VUSD district? What is the agenda of these outsiders for our district?

As to your confusion over unions, no VUSD teacher has to join the VTA. It is a choice. There are other options.

You also seem confused about political contributions. No public school teacher has to contribute to any school board or any other political campaign. There cannot be force or compulsion of any kind. It is a violation of California State Labor Law to force teachers to contribute union dues to political campaigns. All money contributed to election campaigns is voluntarily given.

Union dues are required by law to be separate from political contributions. There are frequent audits of all teachers’ unions financial records in our state to verify that this separation is complete. All union dues are used for collective bargaining that covers both union and non-union teachers and for no other purpose.

No teacher has to teach in a union school if he or she does not want to. All teachers are free to quit and go teach in any private secular or religious school they wish. Of course in non-union schools the salaries are about one half of union schools. Non union schools have few if any medical benefits and usually no retirement pay whatsoever. Perhaps the salary and benefits are why most teachers with California Teaching Credentials attempt to get a job in a union school.

Taxpayer wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:07 PM:Who represents me? 60% of my property taxes go to VUSD. Are they using the funding effectively to raise the quality and reputation of our district? How about representing the community which pays the freight and deserves performance. We have a stake too. Who is my candidate?

Correct grammar wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:11 PM:Correct grammar calls for the word "as" before the use of your rather juvenile insult, "a slob".

You should have used a semi-colon as opposed to a comma.

As for awkward: Your blog was certainly no less.

Too bad English grammer is no longer taught in our schools these days.

to correct grammar wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:39 PM:Disagreements as to the proper usage of commas versus semi-colons are usually categorized as matters of punctuation not grammar.

Semi-colons are used to link together two independent clauses. I do not see two independent clauses, do you?

The two word phrase, "a slob" was a renaming of the phrase "your juvenile insult." Words that rename are called appositives and a comma is used to separate them from the word or phrase they rename.

It truly is too bad that when hard working teachers do their very best to teach grammar and punctuation, there are always a few students who either cannot or will not learn.

Peace and Health

Question wrote on Aug 31, 2008 1:48 PM:After 14 years on the Board, why did David Hubbard decide not to run? He said to spend more time with his faimily. But, we see the argument of the two new Union replacments being that they want to serve their children by being on the board. Didn't Hubbard serve his children by being on the board? Didn't this time on the board give him greater access to enusre his children were getting the best education they could? So again, what was the REAL reason he chose not to run? And why did he need to spend more time with his children? Does he need to provide them with something the school was not able to provide? If so, what?
By the way, I always did like David and thought he was doing a great job of leading the board. His leadership will be sorely missed and very hard to replace, if all we have to choose from is a retired day care worker (can someone really retire from that job after only a few years?) and an instructional aid.

Vista mom wrote on Aug 31, 2008 2:50 PM:To Joanne
Ditto's

to to correct grammer wrote on Aug 31, 2008 3:13 PM:Though correct with regard to the appositive, you are both incorrect as to the punctuation. The colon should have been used, as in your application you were directing attention to the appositive.

Of course, if we are to look at your last post we can find many other failures in punctuation: too many to list here. Punctuation is as much a part of proper English grammar as is the appropriate use of the words themselves.

But, we seem to have missed the point of this article: VTA's slight to their members by way of endorsement of non-union, non-teachers to represent dues paying Teacher’s Union members.

larry wrote on Aug 31, 2008 4:04 PM:VUSD board is full of self serving knuckleheads.All my kids went to Vista schools and the real engine is the dedicated teachers,parents who are tired of
seeing kids get the shaft intseadn of being shut down at board meetings by our incumbent extremest elements. We used to be number one. Now Vista is the laughing stock of county schools. VTA and CSEA are united!!!!

reply to Outspent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 4:11 PM:Why should anybody answer your false accusation? What is YOUR agenda? You espouse a false claim about campaign funds, as the records show the Union has outspent its opposition in every election for the past 12 years.

who cares wrote on Aug 31, 2008 4:46 PM:VTA has always supported candidates who ultimately produce nothing new. VUSD has been in decline for nearly 20 years. During that time VTA has grown strong and powerful while the children have suffered. Teachers haven't really done much better under the reign of the VTA. So, why should we continue to support a majority put on the board by the VTA? What good has it done us to date? Building more failing schools with temporary building materials that won't even last the 20 years claimed by the builder? Maintenance costs are already rising due to so many small schools spread around town. And yet funds to the CSEA employees are being cut. Did you notice that with the declining enrollment over the last few years it was the CSEA employees that got cut while none of the teachers were laid off? It may be great that your VTA is keeping you employed, but what sort of condition will your classrooms be in if you keep cutting us? Are Teachers going to cut the grass, clean the toilets, fix the drinking fountains, patch the leaky roofs, mop the floors, empty the trash...? They already have too little time to properly teach the kids. Where will they find time for all the rest? Or will they just make the kids do this work? "Jobs Americans won't do?"

VTAJAKACHUNKA wrote on Aug 31, 2008 5:10 PM:whatta ya thinka !!!

to larry wrote on Aug 31, 2008 5:11 PM:so, what is your answer: sit out the election and let fate take its course? You speak of dedicated teachers and parents as the real engine. So, are you saying teh fuel supply has been cut off or that the engine is no longer being kept properly maintained? If so, what is the cause of the engine's failure: lack of parental concern? Lack of community involvement? environment? funds mismangement? You simply complain without providing an answer. That is like "teaching to the test." no change, no improvement. we've tried it the VAT way for the past 14 years and failure to show for it. isn't it time to try something new? what coudl we loose? a few more teachers and administrators? we seem to have too many of them now. So why not!

another parent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 6:02 PM:To Question:

You forgot that the "retired day care worker and the instructional aide" have been involved with the district in PTA as well as district committees for many years, that's more than I can say for Fernandez, and Anderson, I'll take the involved candidates anyday!

to VTAJAKACHUNKA wrote on Aug 31, 2008 6:19 PM:you left out Lilly!

VTA:JAKACHUNKALILLY

To Joanne wrote on Aug 31, 2008 6:22 PM:I must agree. We need more women like Sara Palin and Patty Anderson holding office. Women like them will be REAL change!

to to correct grammar wrote on Aug 31, 2008 7:08 PM:The most common punctuation preceding an appositive is a comma, not a colon and never a semi-colon. If you do not believe me, try googling appositive and punctuation.

The point of my first post was to highlight the inherent humor of finding poor grammar in a post accusing someone else of "bad" grammar. The 7:57AM post accused the elected president of the VTA of using "bad" grammar while that post itself was grammatically incorrect. Unintended irony can be humorous, don't you think?

I find your assertion, that punctuation is a part of grammar, bizzare. Both are very important when writing but only one is important when speaking. Please assure me that you are not a VUSD English teacher.

I do admit to a left out comma in the second post. After more than forty years since my last high school English class, I was so thrilled at remembering the word--appositive--that I posted prematurely.

Peace and Health

Outspent wrote on Aug 31, 2008 7:16 PM:I would love to see "the record" that shows that the honorable and good folks of the VTA outspent the "anti" crowd in any election. My memory tells me differently but I could be wrong.

I am willing to be corrected. However, until these "records" are produced, forgive me if I trust my memory over yours.

Laura wrote on Aug 31, 2008 7:25 PM:Joanne- I am voting for Obama but I am also voting for Patty Anderson.

I place Patty Anderson in a higher position than the Republican vice- president elect. I think Patty has more experience than Gov. Sara Palin. Palin was a bad choice for McCain she has NO experience for the position which she is seeking.

Laura wrote on Aug 31, 2008 7:29 PM:Woody- are you familiar with the case of Harnett vs. SDCOE et al.,?

grammer wrote on Aug 31, 2008 8:52 PM:No, I don't teach English at VUSD. But I do have a PhD in Communication and teach at a local University. Punctuation is a part of verbal communication and the written form is directly derived from the verbal. As for Googling to obtain a reference, I'll advise you as I do my students: Check your sources, and if they are not peer reviewed be very careful. I tend to stick to the writer's reference by Diana Hacker and the Publican Manual of the American Psychological Association. Good of you to remember a word from 40 years past. But, be careful how you use that knowledge as it may be a bit fuzzy from lack of use.

Katherine wrote on Aug 31, 2008 9:05 PM:Laura, I'm with you on the experience of Patty Anderson for a School Board position. Teaching teachers at the University level provides great insight into both the needs of the teachers as well as the shortcomings of our primary and secondary education system.

Not so sure I'd agree with you on the lack of experience for Palin. At least she has been a Governor of a state and has executed Executive authority. Which of the other candidates has that experience?

I guess from what I've been reading in the various blogs over time, serving on school site councils and committees during a time when the District has been failing to provide quality Education is more than enough qualification as far as the Union is concerned. But, as a Professional Educator myself I place experience in the classroom and the achievement of multiple degrees from institutions of higher learning very high. That is why my support is fully behind my colleague, Patty Anderson.

Woody wrote on Aug 31, 2008 10:15 PM:To Laura - Nope, should I be? Does it involve VUSD, VTA, and the current set of candiates in any way? If so, could you please direct us to the records of that case?

TaxPayer wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:07 PM:If the Union get their candidates we will see another bond and more taxes. No more taxes! Don't vote for the VTA union candidates.

VTA leadership doesnt care... wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:18 PM:The last time I heard anything about making sure that EVERY child in VUSD could read and write it was brought up by Gibson and Guffanti. If that is "bullying", then good. Why is it that all I hear from the VTA is their whining about how hard it is to teach children Linda Mood Bell. Why, so that ALL of VUSD children can read??? Imagine that! How many schools are still on the sanction list? It is because if the program doesn't work you must change it and that is what Dr. Bales,the current Board, and hard working teachers did to improve test scores. Guffanti and Gibson just want one thing. They want ALL of the VUSD children to be able to read, write, and become responsible members of society. I haven't seen Jaka do anything but dismantle the Honors program at the Middle School level and what does Chunka have to bring to the table? That has yet to be seen. The numbers are the numbers, and in the last 3 years there are a significantly higher number of children who are able to read at basic than there was three years ago. That is the proof in the pudding. Not just some pie in the sky like the VTA is trying to sell to anyone who is dense enough to buy it.

to Laura wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:19 PM:I'm quite familiar with the case you mention. Why do you bring it up in this set of blogs? It has nothing to do with VUSD. It is all about SDCOE, the dismissal of an employee, and various hiring practices of consultants. Is there a connection to any of the candidates that we should know about? Or are you implying that similar practices have been taking place at VUSD. Or, are you aware of a wrongful termination case at VUSD that is being filed by someone closely associated with one of the candidates?
Please Laura, tell us so that we can dig into the dirt you want so much to tell us about!

Laura wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:25 PM:Woody-actually yes the case involves corruption, conflict of interests, billable hours, hanky panky with subordinates and some very serious allegations. I guess one could say that if this spirit comes from the top than why should we expect local school districts to do the right thing.

The North County Times refuses to write articles about VUSD and Guajome Park inner problems so I guess I will have to set up my website.

In general people believe that if newspapers don't expose the truth then the truth should will have to come from a website.

Thank God for computer and internet access!!!

Laura wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:29 PM:Katherine- 1 1/2 years of experience is hardly any experience. How many years of experience does Biden have?

Is Biden being investigated right now?

Don't take this the wrong way I think the gal is likable and so is her husband but I sure don't think she is ready for the task.....

Sure I would vote for her over Hillary in a heart beat but Hillary is out of the picture. So I have to vote for the best package.

MCcain is a nice guy but he is way too old.......we need fresh blood.

Vista concerned citizen wrote on Sep 1, 2008 12:01 AM:If Patty Anderson is a dues paying member of CTA then why did Palomar College say during the election two years ago that she was not? Did she begin to pay when she decided to run for the School Board again? Her own daughter does not attend public school.

Jaka and Chunka care about the students of Vista because their children attend our schools. Also, their friends' children attend Vista's schools and they care for all these children's education. Isn't it time we had members on the board who care about students and not themselves and their own agenda. Personally I am tired of hearing about Guffanti. ... It is time to replace this ... man who accomplishes nothing for our students.
Support Jaka, Lilly and Chunka; three candidates who care about Vista students and our schools!

VTA member and rd grade teacher at VUSD wrote on Sep 1, 2008 7:10 AM:To Patti Anderson,

Count your blessings you did not get the VTA endorsement. We Teachers use the VTA recommendations to determine who not to vote for. We who want to change things vote for anybody NOT on their endorsement list.

William member of PFF wrote on Sep 1, 2008 8:36 AM:To: Vista Concerned Citizen. Patty Anderson was one of the first members to join PFF here at Palomar College. I joined along with her when we first chartered and this is a matter of public record.

Last VUSD election, our own union leadership supported a teenage student over Patty, an award winning teacher and fellow Union member. This speaks volumes for the political bias and corruption in our union leadership. Sound familiar VTA??? We the members of PFF were very disappointed in and embarrassed by our leadership for sending this message to our fellow members. We will be watching this race closely. No body should have to endure what she did two years ago.

To Vista concerned citizen wrote on Sep 1, 2008 8:55 AM:Answer to Palomar's comment: Palomar is NOT a CTA Union School. Rather they are a American Federated Teacher's (AFT) Union School. On the other hand, CSUSM is a CTA Union School, and so is MiraCosta College. You will also find that Patty Anderson only pays dues at Palomar to the PFF (Palomar Faculty Federation) when she has classes there. According to Bill Bedford, the PFF Rep at Palomar, Patty Anderson was in fact a dues paying member of the PFF that semester since she was teaching. Before you try to attack a Dues paying Union member you better check your data!
CSUSM CTA Rep.

To Vista concerned citizen wrote on Sep 1, 2008 9:05 AM:I'd be more concerned about the current failed schools at VUSD than whether or not a parent chose to put their child into that failed school system. As a parent myself I would have to ask anyone who puts their child into VUSD, "Why are you jeopardizing your child's future by exposing them to the failures at VUSD?" It is the responsibility of every parent to ensure their child receives the best education they can provide for them. If the public schools are failing and you can afford a private school, you are not only aiding your child by sending them there, you are also aiding the local children by not placing you child into the overcrowded schools of VUSD. So, why do you have to attack a parent for doing what they feel is best for their own child? Do you really feel that threatened by someone who is sacrificing for her children, and who is actually willing to sacrifice additional time for your child and the rest of the children of VUSD? This election is not about where you send your child for education: it is about providing the best possible education for ALL children! And I believe Patty Anderson, a Professional Educator, can help VUSD to achieve the high standards our children deserve.

To Concerned wrote on Sep 1, 2008 9:12 AM:Caring sounds good but produces nothing. If one really "cared" for their children they would get them out of a failed school system.

To NCT Editor wrote on Sep 1, 2008 9:45 AM:Why did you post the blog from:

Laura
[-] wrote on Aug 31, 2008 11:29 PM:

It does not have anything to do with this article.

Your Policy clearly states: No comments that aren't relevant to the story.

Union Membership wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:06 AM:As an adjunct instructor that teaches at multiple locations (freeway flier), I have joined many Locals of the CTA and AFT/CFT. So, it would not surprise me to find that Patty Anderson has joined her Locals at each of the schools where she teaches. As a member of the Union I would expect my Union to stand behind me and support me. Isn't that what they are for? All the Locals to which I belong respect each other and support each other. Otherwise they would not have the Unified stance needed to support their Local members. I am very disappointed that VTA would not support Patty Anderson. Although I don't have any personal experience with the k-12 CTA Locals, I am guessing they see their brothers and sisters in the College and University Locals as competition. We on the other hand desire to support our brothers and sisters in the K-12 system as we know how hard they have had things: we see the results of their difficulties every day in our classrooms. I have personally seen the numbers of students requiring remedial English and Math grow from around 10% to well over 60% over the last 10 years. That tells me something is seriously wrong in teh K-12 system. If one of my sisters is willing to give her time to a local K-12 public school system by serving on the board, she definitely has my support!

AFLCIO Member wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:30 AM:Union:
1. A combination so formed, especially an alliance or confederation of people, parties, or political entities for mutual interest or benefit.
2. The act of uniting or the state of being united.
3. The act of making or becoming a single unit.
4. Agreement or harmony resulting from the uniting of individuals; unity.
5. An organization of employees formed to bargain with the employer.

Unity:
1. The state of being one; oneness.
2. A whole or totality as combining all its parts into one.
3. The state or fact of being united or combined into one, as of the parts of a whole; unification.
4. Standing as one; united.

Obviously VTA has lost sight of the meaning of Union and Unity. If you choose to stand alone you will be left standing by yourself. I’m voting Patty Anderson.

Laura wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:46 AM:Anyone can post, this is not a republican ONLY article. Get over it, I can vote for whoever I want and I don't have to vote for candidates just because someone from the pulpit tells me to do so.

I am an independent women and a free thinker. I can search the candidates for myself and vote for whoever I want and I can voice my opinion if I want as well.

Instead of posting vote for this or vote for that name facts, history and experience. The voters should think for themselves.

to another parent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 12:06 PM:Involved in the PTA during the decline of the District is no indication of qualification to run the district: except further into the ground. I'll go with those working for REAL change and those bringing a professional attitude to the table.

David wrote on Sep 1, 2008 1:14 PM:It sounds like VTA needs to have a membership meeting to decide what their members really want. The strength of unions is the "fact" that they are the true voice of their members. If this is not the case, then the VTA members need to make a change in their local to reflect what should be the true democratic quality of all CTA,CFA,CCA or CFT/AFT locals and affiliates. I believe it is called "getting your own house in order" before you take on outside issues.

Being a 20+ year member of my union has helped make my working conditions better and has also helped improve the learning conditions of my students. Unions, administrations and school boards should work together in the interest of improving education for all of our students and our community.

another parent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 1:48 PM:Can you tell me what organizations/professional attitudes your candidates will bring to the table? What Real change are they bringing? Let's compare apples to apples,being in PTA directly serves our children, I'll still take involved VUSD parents over uninvolved political puppets anyday.

to another parent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 3:14 PM:What have your candidates done while serving on the PTA? What real authority does the PTA have? If the past 20 years are any indication of what PTA involvement at VUSD brings, then I don't see anything that your candidates will provide with regard to change. Sometimes it takes outside professionals to turn an organization around. Insiders only perpetuate the many problems that have put the organization into the mess it currently finds itself in. So, if you can be specific with regard to the changes your candidates will bring: changes they could not or did not implement from their involvement in the PTA, then we may actually be able to have a dialog. But, so far all you do is continue to imply that your candidates are better because they are parents and PTA members. Personally, I question any parent that has spent so much time at VUSD during the last few years that would actually believe their child was getting a good education. Just look at the test scores! Why would any caring parent subject their child to such mediocrity if they had another choice?

Samuel wrote on Sep 1, 2008 4:40 PM:THIS IS MY 10TH SUBMISSION OF THIS BLOG. ITS CONTENTS ARE RELEVANT TO THE ARTICLE AS STATED IN YOUR POLICY AND I AM STATING MY OPINION AS ARE YOUR OTHER SUBMITTERS. THERE IS NO REASON NOT TO PRINT THIS EXCEPT TO PROTECT THE VTA. IF YOU CONTINUE TO DENY ME MY RIGHT TO RESPOND AS MANY OTHERS HAVE I WILL SEEK REDRESS THROUGH WHATEVER MEANS AVAILABLE TO ME ESPECIALLY AFTER PRINTING THE LAURA 8/31 11:29 PM BLOG.

For those of us that attend the Board meetings and follow the blogs it is clear that the goal of the VTA is to replace Dr. Bales. It is also clear from forum submissions to the NCT and comments at the Board meetings that both Mrs. Jaka and Mrs. Chunka also want a new superintendent. Why else would they receive the VTA endorsement over an educational professional such as Patty Anderson? I ask that you stop and analyze the repercussions to the VUSD (which includes the students and taxpayers) if the VTA is successful in getting Dr. Bales fired. First, it will be hard to justify her dismissal since test scores are rising after falling for 15 years. Who would want to step into a position that is obviously controlled by the teachers union? The quality of the candidates to replace her would be questionable at best. Common sense tells me that if the VTA does fire Dr. Bales officials in Sacramento won’t wait long before taking over the District. Just look at the facts. If we have to replace a proven well-qualified superintendent that led this turnaround with a much less qualified person controlled by the entity that has been in control these last 15-years Sacramento will not waste time. Stacy, please do an article on the logistics of the State taking over a school district focusing especially on the cost factor.

To Outspent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 6:14 PM:According to the NCT article 5 Feb 2007, “Vista Teachers Association was by far the biggest spender in the last campaign, spending more than $30,000 on the two candidates it chose to back."

In 2004 we find that VTA spent over $33,000 while the opposition spent about $17,000. However, there is documentation filed showing that Hillcrest Homes donated nearly $7,000 directly to the opposition and then "Independently" spent an additional $31,000 without knowledge or approval from the candidates. You will find that our form of Democracy permits individuals and corporations to freely speak during campaigns by spending money "Independently" from the candidates. In reality the VTA is doing exactly that when they purchase signs, advertisements, and fliers supporting those candidates they endorse. If you desire to silence others who choose to “Independently” support the opposition then you will need to likewise silence the Union. I'd venture to say you will find very few who would complain about that, EXCEPT the Union!
The 2002 election show similar expenditures between VTA and the opposition. Both spent over $60,000 each supporting their two candidates. The majority of the opposition’s money was in the form of loans from one of the two candidates from his personal business.
So, again we must ask where your memory of outside funds is coming from, as it would appear that VTA is routinely the bigger spender when we look at outside funds supporting candidates. Typically we find that those candidates supported by the VTA do not open campaign accounts and do not raise funds separately. In those few cases where such was done their expenditures only increased the total support from all sources to an even greater figure than their opposition.
I did not research farther than 2002, but I seriously doubt I will find anything different unless we go back beyond 14 years ago, before the recall.

Reply to David wrote on Sep 1, 2008 6:23 PM:VTA is only a Local of the CTA. MiraCosta College also has its own Local of CTA, as does CSUSM. Palomar has a Local of CFT/AFT, a competitor to CTA. Additionally, VUSD has another Union, the CSEA, representing non-teaching staff. The problem we see here is that Patty Anderson is a CTA member from CSUSM and MiraCosta, and a CFT member from Palomar. She does NOT belong to the VTA. However, the VTA is a Local of the CTA and does receive funding from the CTA to aid in campaigns. Obviously VTA leadership is not listening to CTA leadership with regard to supporting CTA members. Therefore, it appears that VTA is attempting to strike out on their own. Only outside intervention from the CTA can help in a case such as this. Of course, if the members of the VTA where to hold an election, as opposed to simply having a committee select who they desired to support there might well be a different outcome. But, VTA has never even thought about asking their rank and file for their input on who they would like to support. Rather, they have traditionally told their rank and file who to support. Teachers are usually too busy to bother with such things, so of course the VTA leadership has be able to get away with this for many years. But, over these same years rank and file will note that they have not received many pay raises, have often gone without a contract, and really have not been well represented by their Leadership or the board members their leadership has backed. So David, you are right that rank and file would greatly benefit if they were to hold a meeting and give some serious consideration to who they wish to support and who they want representing them, not to mention what direction they desire their Local to be heading. But, that will take an inside revolt on the part of rank and file, or an outside push by CTA.

another parent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 6:36 PM:Actually, I asked you what your candidates have brought to the district, however, I am not surprised I didn't get an answer, better to throw the question back than to not have an answer huh? I can tell you that PTA across the district provide funds for field trips, money for supplies, improvements to school sites, shall I go on. I bet your kids have benefitted from PTA.Jaka and Chunka have not only served on PTA, but on numerous committees, let's see who looks like a real candidate when the forums start, if remember last time Anderson didn't know a thing about the district. I said earlier, what will your candidates do or have done for the kids of the district? Low test scores? Well now, who's the superintendent?

to another parent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 6:45 PM:As one of the teachers in your child's school I know firsthand what Patty Anderson has done for VUSD. I've attended many workshops that she has put on at UCSD. I have also attended other teacher training (for free I might add) that she has directed to the teachers at VUSD. I have also taken my class on a field trip that was sponsored by an organization that Patty Anderson sent our way. Seems to me that Patty Anderson knows very well what we teachers need, and what our students need. Jaka on the other hand did all she could to dismantle the middle school honors program and that seriously hurt students and teachers alike!

Vista Watchdog wrote on Sep 1, 2008 6:54 PM:Knowing VUSD is to know that it is failing! What more does one need to know? Why anybody would want to serve on the board of a failing district is beyond me. But, having turned a few businesses around in my time I'd have to support an outside professional over an inside amateur. My money is on Patty Anderson.

another parent wrote on Sep 1, 2008 7:02 PM:So glad to hear Ms. Anderson has done some nice things for the kids, after all she is a teacher right? Doesn't make her any more qualified than a PTA rep. or any other right? So, I question you again, what will she bring to the table that Jaka and Chunka won't.?

to Vista Watchdog wrote on Sep 1, 2008 7:20 PM:Actually, before you put your "money"on Anderson, you better attend a few forums, last time she was totally lost to answer any question(s) put before her, in fact she didn't have a clue!

Isnt it clear wrote on Sep 1, 2008 7:37 PM:Isn't it clear that if Patty Anderson isn't supported by any teacher's union that she isn't supporting public education values? She is another Gibson/ Gufanti for the board. Both of those gentlemen claim to support privitizing public education. They don't have the state power to change the current system in CA so they create havoc in VUSD due to drastically conflicting ideas on how to best educate our city's kids. Let's work with the current system so we can function instead of name calling and practicing dirty politics.

to isnt it clear wrote on Sep 1, 2008 8:34 PM:I ask you who is practicing dirty politics?? just google the name Patty Anderson and see what she went through last time. It was well documented.

to Isnt it Clear wrote on Sep 1, 2008 8:48 PM:As the CTA rep from CSUSM I can tell you she has our support. I also know from talking to the CTA local at MiraCosta she is supported by them as well. Finally, as motioned above the PFF rep appears to supports her. Looks to me like the only union not supporting her is VTA. All that I have ever seen of Patty Anderson is a lifelong support of education, and I've known her for many years. So, I'm not quite sure why you have to drag her name through the mud when you obviously have never taken the time to get to know her. I know of no other person as dedicated to education as Patty Anderson. That includes many of the Professors here at CSUSM. Even Dr. Lilly knows of Patty Anderson’s dedication to her students. Just ask him about the recent CSUSM Graduation.

Vista Watchdog wrote on Sep 1, 2008 9:02 PM:I was at those forums and I was quite impressed by her knowledge concerning education. I'm not quite sure what you are trying to imply by claiming she didn't have a clue. Maybe it was you who had a problem understanding her? Yes, as a resident of Vista since before Vista was even a city, I know what goes on around here and I know only too well the "Dirty Politics" that have been played for years. I even know about all the opportunities the city had for wonderful improvements in the early years that were turned down because our mayor owned a dress shop, and she didn't want the competition. Even then "Dirty Politics" and backroom deals were the way things got done. So, why should I be surprised by the lack of professionalism being shown by those who are obviously intimidated by a true professional! My money is still on Patty Anderson, thank you very much.

Another VUSD Teacher wrote on Sep 1, 2008 9:10 PM:So, the VTA leadership's candidates have sat on committees and councils (are these the same councils that were recently rebuked by the CA Department of Education?). I know personally that Patty Anderson has been working with VUSD for many years from behind the scenes providing us teachers with the tools and funding opportunities we need to provide your children with the education they deserve. I'll support another teacher any day over a couple of vocal parents clamoring about what they want for their little Jonnie and Janie! Thanks, but no thanks Ms. O'Reilly, this VTA member will not man your phone banks or do your bidding! You've failed me and my fellow teachers for too long, and it's time for new leadership!
Stand and Deliver!

Too Late wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:22 PM:TO: REALLY:

NCTimes 8/12/08: "Guffanti backed Anderson in the last race, even contributing $3,000 to her campaign fund. However, she said she will run independently this year."

Too late to separate yourself from Guffanti!!!

or.....

What does she know now that she didn't know then???

Vista concerned citizen wrote on Sep 1, 2008 10:24 PM:To Really;
Patty Anderson did have Guffanti's support the last time she ran, it was in her candidate statement. Her reasons for running for school board are still suspect. If she doesn't support public education by placing her own child in our schools why should we trust her to be on our school board. Where is her vested interest in making it the best. Seems again that Guffanti has a friend running ... It is time to get rid of him and his cohorts.

another parent wrote on Sep 2, 2008 6:30 AM:To all the VUSD "Teachers" on the blogs,
I don't belive any of you are teachers, its called jam the boards so voters will believe teachers do not support the union candidates, good try,maybe even a good strategy, but, I cam see right through and I know who's behind this dirty little tactic.

Too Late wrote on Sep 2, 2008 7:31 AM:TO: Vista Teacher

You stated:
1. I have many times mentioned that I teach within VUSD: If you'd been keeping track you'd know that I even knew David Hubbard as a student.

All this means is: Anyone that works in the City of Vista, works "within" VUSD! Not actually "for" VUSD. and..If you were a classmate of David Hubbard, you knew him as a student...??

You stated:
2. I know more about this District than most others because I've been a part of VUSD longer than most.

All this means is: You are a longtime resident of Vista and subscribe and read the newspaper.

To Too Late wrote on Sep 2, 2008 8:36 AM:Try as you might to smoke out Vista Teacher as being anything other than a teacher at VUSD and you will find it impossible. But why are you so worried about Vista Teacher anyway? They are not running for school board. Could it be that you fear that Vista Teacher might actually be successful at turning around the rank and file of the Union and finally returning control of the VTA to the REAL teachers in the district? We all know the current Union leadership would just love to find Vista Teacher so that they can put an end to his/her voice: they so hate it when people actually speak their mind!

to another parent wrote on Sep 2, 2008 8:47 AM:Yes, the other side of the teachers who actually want to teach as opposed to being micromanaged by the administration and used by their union. That is who is behind all these blogs from VUSD teachers. Believe it or not we don't all agree with our union leadership, and many of us feel we don't have a voice. For if we speak out we take the chance of being cast aside and ostracized by current leadership. So, what are we to do: remain silent? No, we now have a way to have our voices heard without fear of retribution. Thank you NCT for providing us with this forum!
Your failure to read and believe we are truly teachers only shows all the more why we can't support you in your candidacy: You don't listen to ALL the teachers; only those who support you. How can you ever learn if you ignore half your teachers?

Vista Watchdog wrote on Sep 2, 2008 9:06 AM:To too late and vista concerned citizen:

Ronal Reagan was a Democrat when he was Governor of CA. He switched parties and became one of the most conservative Republicans in recent history. Shall we continue with the history of people who changed sides, changed their views, and grew to be better people? Obviously from the way the VTA crowd is returning to the tactics they used in the last election to attack Ms. Anderson they show they feel no remorse for what took place, nor have they grown or changed in any way. From what I read earlier that Ms. Anderson was seeking the union's endorsement it was obvious that she was willing to listen and change. But, it would seem that the VTA is unwilling to consider supporting one of their own in favor of non-union, non-teachers. What does that say about the VTA and the candidates they have chosen to support? Seems to me that nothing has changed in Vista or VUSD in the last 40+ years; still playing dirty politics. Only in the case of VUSD they do it at the expense of our children! Shame on you, and you actually claim that your candidates are supportive of public Education? What sort of Education have you and your candidates been providing over last decade or so? It's pathetic! You talk about change but are unwilling to consider any real change. Just more of the same. Well, with any luck the people will finally see through the smokescreen you are throwing up and you will finally see what happens when real change is allowed to take place.

To Vista concerned citizen wrote on Sep 2, 2008 9:28 AM:If you send your child to a 4 year University (UC or CSU) as opposed to sending them to your local Community College does that mean you don't support the local Community College and thus should not be considered as a viable candidate for the Community College Board?
If you send your child to a Private University (Harvard, Stanford, Yale, etc.) or Religious University (USD, Loyola, Pepperdine, etc.) does that mean you don't support California's Public Universities (UC and CSU)?
If not in these cases, then why, when a parent decides it is best for them to not place their child in a failing public school, is it considered not supporting public education?
Why should anyone have to subject their child to failure just to show their "support" for the local school district? And what about those who have no children: are they prohibited from supporting public school because they don’t place any children in the public schools?

If you can't, or won't, answer these simple questions then you are not qualified to sit on a school board in support of the local voters and the children of this district.

Now, can we leave the candidates' children out of this race? Or are we to see them exposed to your dirty politics too?

To Too to late wrote on Sep 2, 2008 10:00 AM:I agree with you wholeheartedly! But wouldn't the kicker to the VTA "Whichhunt" be if Vista Teacher was right under their nose? Wouldn't that be a hoot? LOL ok LMAO! Poor Jan O'Reilly wouldn't know what to do! sic
I am done with this subject, I think that it is time to move on. The meat has been chewed up, regurgitated, and spit out. What's next VTA? What pot can you stir up? Maybe concentrate on teaching? Now, that’s a thought!

To Vista concerned citizen wrote on Sep 2, 2008 10:23 AM:If you send your child to a 4 year College (UC or CSU) as opposed to sending them to your local Community College does that mean you don't support the local Community College and thus should not be considered as a viable candidate for the Community College Board?
If you send your child to a Private University (Harvard, Stanford, Yale, etc.) or Religious University (USD, Loyola, Pepperdine, etc.) does that mean you don't support California's Public Universities (UC and CSU)?
If not in these cases, then why, when a parent decides it is best for them to not place their child in a failing public school, is it considered not supporting public education?
Why should anyone have to subject their child to failure just to show their "suppo