Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXXIst, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I do not know if you can get over this week in time to propose this to Ted at Finance & Lloyd at Treasury Board. But, why not propose to these fine gentleman that a way to jumpstart the Alberta Economy might be to provide students not just with Student Loans, but also allow them the option either through Government coffers, lending institutions (or both) the chance to borrow funds while they are still in school towards small businesses?
So in otherwords, lend them small amounts of capital or what is termed for the most part in developing nations: Microloans. In the Middle East, Africa, Afghanistan & Iraq, Microloans have been made mostly to women to start up small & labour intensive businesses. As well as to groups of students who combine in a collective(s) to start up businesses that will improve their lives & the condition of their local educational centres with Microloans. The payback rate is an astonishing 92%. Source: "CBS Evening News With Russ Mitchell."
If students are given an equal chance at success with Microloans & their parents or family members can help co-sign, this can only be a good thing for them & the economy as a whole. Keeping in mind the loans should be smaller & more manageable than an adult loan & have a cmmensurate lower interest rate so that the student(s) have a fairer chance at paying it back faster, whether their business proposition succeeds or fails. So lets get on the bullhorn David, lets teach these kids to learn about how to be pros at conducting businesses at a younger age. The more successful they are, the more profitable their lenders will be, a true win win situation for all!
Happy Birthday Queen Beatrix Of The Netherlands,
Rory
Source: The Dutch Royal Family, Den Haag, The Netherlands.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Transform And Roll Out Swap Switch Trade
January XXXth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I realize the logistics of this idea would not work in rural schools, but why not institute a policy in urban centres/townships whereby that kids from inner city schools switch places with the kids in their more modern counterparts for a week? The curriculum is the same, so why not make it so that the inner city children who go to more poorer, run down facility's see what life is like in a more up to date facility. So that they can see that as the adults of the future, the Province is giving them the greatest potential to learn, even in the facilty's they currently are in.
At the same time, kids from more modern schools attending the inner city facility's will see their value & the fact that its best Alberta Education keeps inner city schools in older neighborhoods open for family's that cannot afford to send their kids to the newer schools. As well as that the kids in the inner city school's should have just as much right to an equal level of education as their suburbanite counterparts.
David, it really of course is about semantics. At the Public School Board Meeting earlier this week, Trustees were talking about cutting back old schools or mothballing them all together, why? This makes no sense. Shuttle in the kids from other neighborhoods where there is a shortage of schools, hire new teachers, update the older facility's & put them to use again. Put them at as close to 100% occupancy as possible. If there are no funds to build new schools anyway, reinvest ithe old ones, place greater numbers of kids in them & increase the tax base immediately. Thus allowing for more funds to flow into Provincial coffers, then more funds can be allotted to the inner city kids so that they have an equal chance of learning & succeeding in life!
Baltimore Is Lovely In The Winter,
Rory
Source: "Homicide: Life On The Street": NBC Television: Baltimore, Maryland, The United States Of America.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Jasper Place High School Jasper Park Lodge Jasper Townsite Jasper Dale
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXIXth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I want to truly thank the staff & administration of the Jasper Place Composite High School (School Code #7071) for their professionalism in allowing me to challenge write several High School Departmentals. Besides saving me the gas & parking fees, they were very gracious in answering my questions & ensuring I had a safe, comfortable atmosphere in which to write the tests.
These fine folks are truly an inspiration to our educational system. As are the students who were very welcoming of me when I told them the purpose of my visits to the school & how I was trying to inspire folks to get a proper education. After all, you can never underestimate how valuable getting an educaton is. This is why I am trying to be the best of the best & hit 200 Credits & 2 High School Diplomas.
Whats really great is, I wasn't sure of where to park, so students who were outside at the time I first showed up & explained my purpose directed me to the student & visitor parking. This was a truly kind gesture. I also got lost a couple of times in the vast hallways. By goodness if students, staff & custodial staff were kind enough to guide me right where I needed to go. Not just pointing me in the right direction, but by walking me right to my final destination. Taking time out of their busy lives/schedules, this absolutely blew me away at how classy everyone in the JP was. The staff are definitely educating the kids properly in manners.
So whether I pass or whether I fail all or some of the exams, I went down swinging & trying my best to promote the value of education & for that I can be extremely proud of myself!
With Grace,
Rory
Source: Jasper Place Composite High School, Vice-Principal Mike Wilkie.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Artistry In Motion The Edmonton Art Gallery Art Is Creativity Art Is Freedom Of Expression Art Is Contemporary Neoclassical Gothic Modern
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXVIIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
From the commentary & pictures by Ms. Simons in today's Edmonton Journal, the new Art Gallery Of Alberta looks spectacular. My feeling is that Alberta Education should encourage students to not just go there for field trips, but also encourage schools to develop Art curriculum that allows complete classes to be taught there, all the way from Elementary to Senior High.
There should also be video clips & films of classes offered there online, as well as live chats so that students who are homeschooled or taking correspondence courses across the Province can have an equal chance to learn all about what the Art Gallery has to offer. Courses in sketching, sculpting, painting & whatever else a person can think of should be offered.
You then tie these courses back with the other two powerful buildings in the triumvate. Ms. Simons article mention the Citadel Theatre. Well, kids can not only go see plays, perhaps they can take lessons from the actors themselves. They could then possibly put on their own amateur productions right on the Citadel Stage itself for credit. Here's the kicker, kids already do at times play in the Winspear Centre. So if courses in music & dance are offered on the Winspear Stage during the day, then the facility will be used more.
Arguably, the stage is empty during the day when there are no rehearsals or there is maintenance going on. So why not let kids in on say a weekly basis for say 3-4 hours so they can get their entire Arts component of credits in a live, real time artistic facility? Expanding the artistic horizons of children can certainly be only a good thing. Lets use the facilities to maximum effect so that we create an unlimited amount of future artistes! The more art grows exponentially in Edmonton & surrounding area, the better the quality of life for those students overall & for the people that choose to patronize their endeavours!
Matter Of Factly,
Rory
Source: Edmonton Public Library.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Public Safety Children's Safety Snow Safety
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXVIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I as you know have taken a very strong interest in education. Last night I drove a senior citizen with a cane to the open session meeting of the Public School Board. We were both absolutely incensed upon arriving at the Centre for Education at Kingsway.
Safety should not just be at schools. It should start first & foremost with the Public Administration Building for Educators/Trustees./ My friend is an 84 year old gentleman who uses a cane. So we parked in the handicapped stall with his car that has a valid handicapped pass. He then said he would like to walk up the wheelchair ramp as it has a railing he can use to guide him.
David, it was absolutely atrocious, the ramp had snow, loose ice & black ice on it. He almost fell three times and was very upset. We then sat in the main lobby for 15 minutes so he could rest & then got into the meeting late. I of course asked a question during the public comments/questions section & was referred to the Board Secretary, who of course stalled me out & told me to contact Alberta Education.
There was no shovel or anything available in the front lobby. If there had been, I would have shovelled the path David for free. i would have also put Ice Melt on the path to make it safe for seniors and other disabled persons to walk upm without being in fear for their well being, their very life in fact. As we left the building, I manouvered my friend's car to right in front of the main stairs & then acted as a stabilizer with my shoulder & arm so he would not fall. Luckily the ice had been cleared on the steps down. But he never should have had to face the situation of walking on black ice in the first place. This kind of situation is intolerable David, Alberta Education has maintenance crews, lets them do their jobs! Without seniors & other disabled adults taking such an active interest in education, there are less persons who can help today's children & the children of the future make the right academic choices for themselves in order to become productive members of society.
Ice-Pick Shovels Are Only What $11.99 At Canadian Tire David,
Rory
Source: Canadian Tire.
January XXVIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I as you know have taken a very strong interest in education. Last night I drove a senior citizen with a cane to the open session meeting of the Public School Board. We were both absolutely incensed upon arriving at the Centre for Education at Kingsway.
Safety should not just be at schools. It should start first & foremost with the Public Administration Building for Educators/Trustees./ My friend is an 84 year old gentleman who uses a cane. So we parked in the handicapped stall with his car that has a valid handicapped pass. He then said he would like to walk up the wheelchair ramp as it has a railing he can use to guide him.
David, it was absolutely atrocious, the ramp had snow, loose ice & black ice on it. He almost fell three times and was very upset. We then sat in the main lobby for 15 minutes so he could rest & then got into the meeting late. I of course asked a question during the public comments/questions section & was referred to the Board Secretary, who of course stalled me out & told me to contact Alberta Education.
There was no shovel or anything available in the front lobby. If there had been, I would have shovelled the path David for free. i would have also put Ice Melt on the path to make it safe for seniors and other disabled persons to walk upm without being in fear for their well being, their very life in fact. As we left the building, I manouvered my friend's car to right in front of the main stairs & then acted as a stabilizer with my shoulder & arm so he would not fall. Luckily the ice had been cleared on the steps down. But he never should have had to face the situation of walking on black ice in the first place. This kind of situation is intolerable David, Alberta Education has maintenance crews, lets them do their jobs! Without seniors & other disabled adults taking such an active interest in education, there are less persons who can help today's children & the children of the future make the right academic choices for themselves in order to become productive members of society.
Ice-Pick Shovels Are Only What $11.99 At Canadian Tire David,
Rory
Source: Canadian Tire.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Amazing Grace Jones New York
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXVIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
If Catholic schools offer there religious courses from a Catholic perspective & Public schools offer their religious courses from the Protestant perspective, why is it that neither offer the opposing Christian viewpoint in the format of religious courses & perspectives, so that there may be a better understanding of the two churches. They were after all one faith until Henry VIIIth started up the Anglican church.
Also, why is it that I as a Public school student cannot take courses based on religion from say the Jewish, Islamic, Buddhist, or Hindu faith. Or any other recognized faiths for that matter? I am appalled at this quite frankly. Just because someone is or is not Christian in terms of their belief system, doesn't mean they shouldn't have the right to study about their own religion (or another.) As I have stated before David, there needs to be courses created in tandem with teachers of other faiths & Alberta Education that promote ther values & belief systems to better represent the multicultural mosaic of our diverse Province.
Lets form an Alberta Education Interfaith Council. Lets cordinate & make High School courses that encompass all faiths or at least as many as we can that encompass this Province. Invite Christians, Jews, Muslims, Christian Scientists, Mormons, whomever you feel can contribute. Lets make religion respected across the board, not just through Christianity.
Blessings,
Rory
Source: The Qu'ran, The Adu Granthi, The Torah.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Exam Reconfiguration Recalibration Reconstitutionalization
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
As a man with a quest to hit 200 High School Credits, I am appalled, no frankly disgusted with the way your department has dumbed down the exams just to save a few pennies on the marking.
Frankly, having only Multiple Choice & Numerical Response on the tests causes students to lse focus. So far, the gracious folks at Jasper Place Composite have let me write exam challenges for Chemistry 30, Applied Mathematics 30 & Biology 30. Its borderline stupidity to make the exams harder for students & skip on the long answer. Arguably, students in these areas need to be marked subjectively not just in English & Social Studies. But in all subjects.
In real life, if they go into sciences as a career, they are at points going to have argue points professionally in long form with power point presentations, essays & dissertations. So why not give them a fair chance at passing and make all tests Multiple Choice & Long Answer, throwing out the stupid Numerical Response sections. Each test should also be based on a 50% Long & 50% Multiple Choice Division. Not the new 70% Multiple & 30% Long instituted with Social Studies & English.
Frankly, I walk into the exams and challenge them, I get 50% or higher & I get the associated Credits, as well as any applicable Grade 10 & 11 course Credits for that subject area. So it should be that I have a 50% chance at passing both sections, even tactical strength in otherwords. Not this odd idea that 70%/30% is fair. In classroom exams, they are usually 50%/50% split. So lets recreate those similar conditions in the Departmentals. Let me point out today that I was told Biology 20 students writing today had a written response section, why not balance that with the next highest level? Its called semantics David, ethics in fact. Time for you to go back to a fairer format for all Alberta High School students.
Graciously,
Rory
Source: Government Of Alberta Transcription Unit.
January XXVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
As a man with a quest to hit 200 High School Credits, I am appalled, no frankly disgusted with the way your department has dumbed down the exams just to save a few pennies on the marking.
Frankly, having only Multiple Choice & Numerical Response on the tests causes students to lse focus. So far, the gracious folks at Jasper Place Composite have let me write exam challenges for Chemistry 30, Applied Mathematics 30 & Biology 30. Its borderline stupidity to make the exams harder for students & skip on the long answer. Arguably, students in these areas need to be marked subjectively not just in English & Social Studies. But in all subjects.
In real life, if they go into sciences as a career, they are at points going to have argue points professionally in long form with power point presentations, essays & dissertations. So why not give them a fair chance at passing and make all tests Multiple Choice & Long Answer, throwing out the stupid Numerical Response sections. Each test should also be based on a 50% Long & 50% Multiple Choice Division. Not the new 70% Multiple & 30% Long instituted with Social Studies & English.
Frankly, I walk into the exams and challenge them, I get 50% or higher & I get the associated Credits, as well as any applicable Grade 10 & 11 course Credits for that subject area. So it should be that I have a 50% chance at passing both sections, even tactical strength in otherwords. Not this odd idea that 70%/30% is fair. In classroom exams, they are usually 50%/50% split. So lets recreate those similar conditions in the Departmentals. Let me point out today that I was told Biology 20 students writing today had a written response section, why not balance that with the next highest level? Its called semantics David, ethics in fact. Time for you to go back to a fairer format for all Alberta High School students.
Graciously,
Rory
Source: Government Of Alberta Transcription Unit.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Vice-President Joe Biden Northland Fix Patch
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXIVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I found a solution that might just work in the Northland School District Association. I am not normally liberal in my viewpoints, but I found an idea brought up by US Vice-President Joe Biden, Democrat-Delaware when he was the Senior Senator from Delaware intriguing.
He proposed that in the Iraqi Theatre of battle that the country still be united as Iraq, but that it be split up into autonomous regions. With each region having operational control of state matters, but having one person in charge of national matters such as security. This idea is excellent. So there would be a region for the Kurds up north, with the remaining sections being split between the Sunni & Shia Muslim factions.
Folks such as Arab & Coptic Christians & Jews would be free to of course practice their own religions. This solution would immediately end the tribal violence in Iraq & stop the backstabbing & murder of innocents. Then the US & othernations could leave, with the exception of United Nations troops who would stay in for peacemaking/keeping purposes.
So David I propose that you split the Northland District up into 4 quadrants. 3 with 6 schools & 1 with 5. This will allow you to appoint four administrative heads who can work in conjunction with the sole Trustee, Mr. Kelly. Giving each some autonomy & respect will in the end cost a bit more. But I think keeping the District together under 1 banner with 4 regions makes sense. Decisions will get made faster & the kids in the 1 district where the new school has been built can enter it much quicker.
Let us use the resources we have now David. Let us work for the kids. Just because a child or children are of aboriginal descent doesn't mean their opinions are any less valuable or their educational needs are any less important.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The United States Department Of State.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Northland Decision Northlands Coliseum
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXIIIrd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Your decision to cannibalize and terminate the elected contracts of the 23 Northland Trustees was actually a very astute idea. I will not say whether it was good or bad as I do not live in School District #61. But I do feel you exercised your right to use your Ministerial power properly & did not abuse your trust. It was a smart decision as I can clearly see, you were acting & are acting for the most valuable & vulnerable members of society on the reserves & in their schools, the students.
The rich culture that Aboriginal people's bring to this fine Province, in fact our entire Dominion as a whole cannot be overlooked. But the cycle of poverty certainly is hard to not see. Native people's have been down on themselves for so long, its time we as their fellow Albertans build them up again. Your astute call in bringing in ex superintendent Colin Kelly as the sole Trustee with wide command and control discretion was excellent in fact. Having been in operational charge of District Schools there in the past, he clearly knows the ins And outs of the 23 schools. As well as the machinations of how each school operates or doesn' operate on a daily basis.
I however feel you need to brng in more native or aboriginal influences from outside the jurisdiction to make sure that the kids and their parents get back on track. My suggestion is to bring in say a famous elder from perhaps the Enoch Cree Nation or other tribal band area to be an outside administrator. They would clearly work harder than someone of say caucasian or another race/skin colour as they know & respect their fellow native Albertans. They would have a sense of feeling & know just how tough it is to live on reserves/settlements.
There are many famous aboriginal Albertans who would ensure the return to quality control of the schools. My suggestion would be to have Mike Cardinal, a very astute frmer cabinet minister be put in charge as an overseer. He would be very apprepro & strong in helping out. Lesser Slave Lake MLA Pearl Calahasen would I am sure also be a good fit for this file as say Committee Chairman of Northland Schools Aboriginal Affairs file. She could lead the fight in the Legislature to improve quality access for the people of the reserves/schools. Another great name or possibility might be Colleen Klein, her influence on both Premier Don Getty, what with his Provincial Settlement of Lubicon Land claims, as well as that of her husband (Premier Ralph Klein) through her Metis heritage has been quite frankly rather astounding. Perhaps even getting another famous Canadian, Architect Dennis Cardinal involved would be great. His knowledge of architecture would ensure that long neglected Northland Arts Programs get rebuilt.
I look forward to your further stewardship of this matter.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Enoch Cree Nation Tribal Council.
January XXIIIrd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Your decision to cannibalize and terminate the elected contracts of the 23 Northland Trustees was actually a very astute idea. I will not say whether it was good or bad as I do not live in School District #61. But I do feel you exercised your right to use your Ministerial power properly & did not abuse your trust. It was a smart decision as I can clearly see, you were acting & are acting for the most valuable & vulnerable members of society on the reserves & in their schools, the students.
The rich culture that Aboriginal people's bring to this fine Province, in fact our entire Dominion as a whole cannot be overlooked. But the cycle of poverty certainly is hard to not see. Native people's have been down on themselves for so long, its time we as their fellow Albertans build them up again. Your astute call in bringing in ex superintendent Colin Kelly as the sole Trustee with wide command and control discretion was excellent in fact. Having been in operational charge of District Schools there in the past, he clearly knows the ins And outs of the 23 schools. As well as the machinations of how each school operates or doesn' operate on a daily basis.
I however feel you need to brng in more native or aboriginal influences from outside the jurisdiction to make sure that the kids and their parents get back on track. My suggestion is to bring in say a famous elder from perhaps the Enoch Cree Nation or other tribal band area to be an outside administrator. They would clearly work harder than someone of say caucasian or another race/skin colour as they know & respect their fellow native Albertans. They would have a sense of feeling & know just how tough it is to live on reserves/settlements.
There are many famous aboriginal Albertans who would ensure the return to quality control of the schools. My suggestion would be to have Mike Cardinal, a very astute frmer cabinet minister be put in charge as an overseer. He would be very apprepro & strong in helping out. Lesser Slave Lake MLA Pearl Calahasen would I am sure also be a good fit for this file as say Committee Chairman of Northland Schools Aboriginal Affairs file. She could lead the fight in the Legislature to improve quality access for the people of the reserves/schools. Another great name or possibility might be Colleen Klein, her influence on both Premier Don Getty, what with his Provincial Settlement of Lubicon Land claims, as well as that of her husband (Premier Ralph Klein) through her Metis heritage has been quite frankly rather astounding. Perhaps even getting another famous Canadian, Architect Dennis Cardinal involved would be great. His knowledge of architecture would ensure that long neglected Northland Arts Programs get rebuilt.
I look forward to your further stewardship of this matter.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Enoch Cree Nation Tribal Council.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Hurray For Motherhood Fatherhood Parenthood Working Moms Working Dads Families The Family Unit
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXIInd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
You really should read the January XXIst Edmonton Journal Page B1. There is an article in there about Catholic Trustee Kara Pelech & her little baby Madelyn. It is not only an exciting article to me, its a strong statement for feminism & working mothers. As well as for fathers who are big supporters of the family unit as a whole.
The delightful Journal columnist, Mrs. Sarah O'Donnell gives us a glimpse into motherhood & how the little baby Madelyn is spoiled rotten and accepted greatly by her mom's colleagues on the Catholic Board & by friends and administrators who work in the building. The little girl is adorable just like all babies and she gets plently of attention from all who are there. Icluding many hugs and kisses. She has her own space in her mother's office, in fact she has essentially commandeered that space, taking over total control. Making life for her nursing mother more playful. Which of course is exactly the way things should be.
Whats really cute is the fact that Mrs.O'Donnell refers to the little girl as "the tiniest member of the Board, minus voting priviledges of course." This is hilarious and I am sure quite true. Its I am sure sort of like therapy for the Board Members & Staff working in that office. They not only get to educate & serve the needs of Catholic School children, they get paid to be role models to little Madelyn. More importantly, they get paid to play with the baby, letting their minds relax just a little & relieve the overall stress of their jobs. Its like a total scam job. Influencing young minds and making sure they have the best educated mind possible, from literally birth to their post secondary years.
I for one applaud Trustee Pelech, Madelyn, Mr. Pelech & all the members of the Catholic School Board & District Administration. Promoting motherhood in a working atmosphere can only be a positive thing. The excellence shown here by the Trustee & the journalist who wrote the story are most definitely appreciated. Keep it up I say, we need more positive stories like this in the future.
Regards,
Rory
Source: Edmonton Catholic Trustee Kara Pelech.
January XXIInd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
You really should read the January XXIst Edmonton Journal Page B1. There is an article in there about Catholic Trustee Kara Pelech & her little baby Madelyn. It is not only an exciting article to me, its a strong statement for feminism & working mothers. As well as for fathers who are big supporters of the family unit as a whole.
The delightful Journal columnist, Mrs. Sarah O'Donnell gives us a glimpse into motherhood & how the little baby Madelyn is spoiled rotten and accepted greatly by her mom's colleagues on the Catholic Board & by friends and administrators who work in the building. The little girl is adorable just like all babies and she gets plently of attention from all who are there. Icluding many hugs and kisses. She has her own space in her mother's office, in fact she has essentially commandeered that space, taking over total control. Making life for her nursing mother more playful. Which of course is exactly the way things should be.
Whats really cute is the fact that Mrs.O'Donnell refers to the little girl as "the tiniest member of the Board, minus voting priviledges of course." This is hilarious and I am sure quite true. Its I am sure sort of like therapy for the Board Members & Staff working in that office. They not only get to educate & serve the needs of Catholic School children, they get paid to be role models to little Madelyn. More importantly, they get paid to play with the baby, letting their minds relax just a little & relieve the overall stress of their jobs. Its like a total scam job. Influencing young minds and making sure they have the best educated mind possible, from literally birth to their post secondary years.
I for one applaud Trustee Pelech, Madelyn, Mr. Pelech & all the members of the Catholic School Board & District Administration. Promoting motherhood in a working atmosphere can only be a positive thing. The excellence shown here by the Trustee & the journalist who wrote the story are most definitely appreciated. Keep it up I say, we need more positive stories like this in the future.
Regards,
Rory
Source: Edmonton Catholic Trustee Kara Pelech.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Food Safety Quality Inspections Quality Kids
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXIst, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I realize that the Minister of Health & Minister of Advanced Education have to help you coordinate this decision if you go ahead. As a former Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) student, I would regularly eat in their school cafeteria. I still in fact swing by every few months or so to have a meal. The place is a culinary delight, what with its quality cntrol measures and professional lead & sous chefs. The cooks of the future come from there & these students are highly respected by their peers once they hit the open job market.
So why not use that talent and get the NAIT cooking & culinary students to coordinate with Home Economics classes from Elementary on up through High School? In conjunction with Meals On Wheels, these students could learn to cook and/or prepare meals nt just for the elderly and infirm, but for students in inner city schools who may not be getting the nutritional balance they need on a daily basis. As well as for kids who might not have working parents or those who are home schooled and who do not eat on a regular basis. If & when they do eat, there might not always be a parent to guide them properly in food safety.
It seems to me David that the kids of the present by helping out the kids of the future are going to make sure that the next generation of workers will be economic powerhouses. Is this not what we want David? With kids of all ages who are stronger in mind & body helping those who are down on their luck, socioeconomic structure of society will be evened out & that can only be positive for mankind.
So lets get on this David, dial up the NAIT President & any other cooking schools/facilities you might feel are appropriate & we'll make food education a top priority. Then get a hold of Meals On Wheels. I bet you they will be delighted to see younger people stepping forward and driving their business to grow.
Graciously,
Rory
Source: The Office Of The Registrar, NAIT.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Compassion For The Downtrodden
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XXth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I know that there are a lot of unwanted children here in Alberta and there are many families waiting to adopt. I feel however that you should coordinate with the Premier & the Health Minister on this file. You need to pick up the phone & send Steve Harper a message, that message is that the Alberta Government is willing to take in say 2-3000 kids on a compassionate basis from Haiti. Say in staggered amounts, 400-500 at a time to not overwhelm the system.
This would allow parents who have been waiting for years to have that wait time waived & adopt immediately. Or at least be granted temporary conservatorship/guardianship. David, as you can see, the need for these adoptions is great. They figure there are at least 1 million orphans, which is absolutely appalling. Shouldn't these poor Haitian children have just as much right to a valuable & rich life as children here in Alberta? With that comes the right to a fair & equitable education.
Just because these children are black in skin tone, does not make them any less human. There are many folks out there I am sure, willing to give them a great home. In particular, farming families who face losing their farms due to childrern moving to urban centres. These folks, as well Amish & Hutterite colonies would be I am sure very pleased to expand their usually larger broods by adoptive procedures.
So David, get on the phone & call Steve, get a transport what C-130 plane from Canadian Forces Base Cold Lake & fly it to Port-au-Prince along with soldiers and Government officials. Load it up with supplies and get a ton of minority children out,as many as possible per load. The Haitians will be greatful & appreciative. You will be ensuring that little minds are educated that otherwise would have nothing. Fate brought them this disaster & poor socioeconomic circumstances that they had no control over. Lets give them an opportunity to use their minds for the common good in a multicultural society that will be greatful for the rich Haitian heritage/culture they bring to our Province.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Department Of National Defence, Government Of Canada.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Grapes Of Wrath Donald S Cherry Coast To Coast The Grapeline Grapefruit Grapefruit Juice
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#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XIXth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I had an unexpected trip to the Northeast Medical Faciility on 50th Street & 144th Avenue Monday morning. As it was the quickest serving facility I went there. They assessed me within minutes & I explained to them at about 1:44AM that I had been drinking grapefruit juice. They then told me that grapefruit juice can affect folks who have been on a prescription and make them slightly incapacitated and less able to focus, make decisions. So they told me to stop drinking it and I feel much better the last two days. I had been taking anti-histamines IV a cold and had a strong reaction.
We need David to get into schools & tell kids, especially those on anti infection and anti depression medications to get off this accursed beverage as soon as possible. We also need to ban it from all school cafeterias. Yes grapefruits can have some redeeming qualities and give you an energy boost, but the acid in them can cause a pH. balance problem in people who digest them who have sensitive neurological troubles. Thus causing medicines prescribed to stop working. Let me point out that I was never off my cold medicine at any juncture, so clearly it was the juice. I encourage students to drink water, milk, or other juices such as orange & apple instead.
Let us educate the children to stay away from grapefruits and grapefruit juice as much as possible. I do not advocate taking it off the shelves for the adult consumer to purchase, but its just like I said with Aspartame, this stuff is a scourge David. Let us keep children safe and keep it out of reach. Besides, its unethical to let them buy a product that will help contribute to them being less able to focus and get lower grades.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Northeast Medical Centre, Government Of Alberta.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Cross Pattern Cross Labour Cross Cooperation
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XVIIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I seem to remember a situation several years ago in which a Public and a Catholic School jointly built one facility here in Edmonton. It was I believe experimental. The gymnasium and playground areas were shared by students, teachers and adminstrators from both sides, but there were seperate entrances and classrooms for each set of students. Presumably, they got a good contracted rate on the building and each ponied up 50% of the cost, minus the differential put up by the Province. I would assume they also shared the cost of the janitors and maintenance crews.
What I think should happen David is that the Public & Catholic School Trustees should jointly bid on contracts for any future common facilities. They should also jointly bid on janitorial & maintenance crews for their current facilities. If they come up with joint bids, they will presumably get a bulk, discounted rate on the overall labour costs. Thus saving the Province of Alberta Education Department money & causing there to be a decrease in the need for overall need for cutbacks.
Again this joint bidding process would cut each maintenance contract costs in half for each Board & should be made Provincewide with individually negotiated contracts. Schools need maintenance and children need the safest of environments to learn in. Plus the contractors are happy for the steady work, with the only difference being they get two cheques instead of one. So really in the end here, everyone wins. Costs are lessened and more maintenance crews are working fulltime instead of parttime, increasing taxes overall for Ted & the Finance Ministry, which can in turn be used to fund other educational needs/emergencies.
Graciously,
Rory
Source: The Ministry Of Finance, Government Of Alberta.
January XVIIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I seem to remember a situation several years ago in which a Public and a Catholic School jointly built one facility here in Edmonton. It was I believe experimental. The gymnasium and playground areas were shared by students, teachers and adminstrators from both sides, but there were seperate entrances and classrooms for each set of students. Presumably, they got a good contracted rate on the building and each ponied up 50% of the cost, minus the differential put up by the Province. I would assume they also shared the cost of the janitors and maintenance crews.
What I think should happen David is that the Public & Catholic School Trustees should jointly bid on contracts for any future common facilities. They should also jointly bid on janitorial & maintenance crews for their current facilities. If they come up with joint bids, they will presumably get a bulk, discounted rate on the overall labour costs. Thus saving the Province of Alberta Education Department money & causing there to be a decrease in the need for overall need for cutbacks.
Again this joint bidding process would cut each maintenance contract costs in half for each Board & should be made Provincewide with individually negotiated contracts. Schools need maintenance and children need the safest of environments to learn in. Plus the contractors are happy for the steady work, with the only difference being they get two cheques instead of one. So really in the end here, everyone wins. Costs are lessened and more maintenance crews are working fulltime instead of parttime, increasing taxes overall for Ted & the Finance Ministry, which can in turn be used to fund other educational needs/emergencies.
Graciously,
Rory
Source: The Ministry Of Finance, Government Of Alberta.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
An Educational Foundation Haitian Style
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XVIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I fully agree that the children of the sovereign & great dominion of Haiti need to of course be first & foremost fed, given water, shelter, medicines and such. But since we have French Language component courses in Elementary through High School, we should send correspondence course assignment booklets and texts that are about to be thrown away & new courses that could be printed by Queen's Printer at a low, bulk rate to Haitian children as soon as possible.
This not only will give them a sense of foundation, it will show that we as Albertans care about their educational needs. Especially important if the children in question are orphaned or have outright lost all of their relatives. This not only makes sense to send out the French assignment booklets, but the English ones as well. The majorative population of Haiti speaks Francais, so sending them courses in Diction, Social Studies, Forensic Science, Mathematics, etc. only makes sense. Lets stimulate the minds of the children and relax them with the course work so that they can grow up and put not just their bodies, but their intelligencia to work in rebuilding their fantastic nation & culture. Its time to give the Haitian children an educational grounding, lets make them smarter in mind, so that they will be proud to be Haitians and not fear for the future. This will ensure that they do not feel they are alone, but are admired and respected for their thoughts as well as emotions and physical actions.
Donate Whatever You Can Dave & Please Encourage Others For The Sake Of Humanity,
Rory
Source: The Office Of The Governor-General Of Canada, Michaelle Jean.
January XVIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I fully agree that the children of the sovereign & great dominion of Haiti need to of course be first & foremost fed, given water, shelter, medicines and such. But since we have French Language component courses in Elementary through High School, we should send correspondence course assignment booklets and texts that are about to be thrown away & new courses that could be printed by Queen's Printer at a low, bulk rate to Haitian children as soon as possible.
This not only will give them a sense of foundation, it will show that we as Albertans care about their educational needs. Especially important if the children in question are orphaned or have outright lost all of their relatives. This not only makes sense to send out the French assignment booklets, but the English ones as well. The majorative population of Haiti speaks Francais, so sending them courses in Diction, Social Studies, Forensic Science, Mathematics, etc. only makes sense. Lets stimulate the minds of the children and relax them with the course work so that they can grow up and put not just their bodies, but their intelligencia to work in rebuilding their fantastic nation & culture. Its time to give the Haitian children an educational grounding, lets make them smarter in mind, so that they will be proud to be Haitians and not fear for the future. This will ensure that they do not feel they are alone, but are admired and respected for their thoughts as well as emotions and physical actions.
Donate Whatever You Can Dave & Please Encourage Others For The Sake Of Humanity,
Rory
Source: The Office Of The Governor-General Of Canada, Michaelle Jean.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Three To Four Fix It Or Fixed Transform Term
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XVIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Arguably, this would be more of an issue for the Minister of Municipal Affairs. But, changes in Electoral Act laws must be run through the Alberta Legislature. I do not favour fixed terms of office for MLA's and MP's. I think that parliamentary tradition should continue to be upheld and that the governments should be able to fall at any time. Any jurisdictions that already have fixed term parliamentary elections should eliminate them. I like the fact that the government, if only elected to a minority loses the tactical advantage of deciding when it will leave office, it makes for better legislation & therefore better democacy.
However, I do agree with fixed term election writs for the offices of City Councillors, Reeves, & Mayors. As well as School Board Trustees. But David, there is a real problem here. Holding the elections in the what third wek of October makes no sense. Especially since the standard school year usually starts anywhere from August XXVIIth to September Vth. So I propose backdating the School Board & Council elections to the month of May. This has the advantage of giving the new members the pleasure of being trained by their colleagues & time to adjust to their new jobs.
Of course, there should be a longer transitional period like they have in the United States. The new Trustees should not be sworn in until one day after graduation & final exams are written. Then they have the entire summer to both relax & then hunker down for the fall term afresh & ready to spring new & exciting educational ideas on our citizenry. Holding the writ in May would arguably be better as more voters would turn out at the polls not having to trudge through snowdrifts. Plus, students who are stuck in their classrooms in October could be assigned to go out on special voting trips to see the voting process take place. Making them more likely to want to vote themselves in the future.
I also think the term office length should be extended from 3 to 4 years. Arguably, a Trustee is just as valuable an office holder as an MLA. More important even as they are non political (since they can't have party affiliation) & are working for children, not for any particular cause. In the US Congrssional elections, the House of Representatives has to get reelected every two years. This is stupid as the candidates spend every second year campaigning for reelection, thus being paid to do no actually work in the Congressional Chamber every second year.
In a three year term of office, the Trustee spends the first year learning the job, the second year performing it, and the third year campaigning for reelection (the same goes for Councillors, Reeves & Mayors.) How in the heck are the children's needs supposed to be served if the Trustees are out there on the job for their own necks & no one elses? So lets lengthen the term of office for Trustees (& City/County leaders) to 4 years. Lets change the election month to May. This can happen now David. All you need are 43 votes in the Legislature Chamber David. You are my good sir a very persuasive fellow. I think you know that democracy is best served by this recommendation.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Municipal Act, Province Of Alberta.
January XVIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Arguably, this would be more of an issue for the Minister of Municipal Affairs. But, changes in Electoral Act laws must be run through the Alberta Legislature. I do not favour fixed terms of office for MLA's and MP's. I think that parliamentary tradition should continue to be upheld and that the governments should be able to fall at any time. Any jurisdictions that already have fixed term parliamentary elections should eliminate them. I like the fact that the government, if only elected to a minority loses the tactical advantage of deciding when it will leave office, it makes for better legislation & therefore better democacy.
However, I do agree with fixed term election writs for the offices of City Councillors, Reeves, & Mayors. As well as School Board Trustees. But David, there is a real problem here. Holding the elections in the what third wek of October makes no sense. Especially since the standard school year usually starts anywhere from August XXVIIth to September Vth. So I propose backdating the School Board & Council elections to the month of May. This has the advantage of giving the new members the pleasure of being trained by their colleagues & time to adjust to their new jobs.
Of course, there should be a longer transitional period like they have in the United States. The new Trustees should not be sworn in until one day after graduation & final exams are written. Then they have the entire summer to both relax & then hunker down for the fall term afresh & ready to spring new & exciting educational ideas on our citizenry. Holding the writ in May would arguably be better as more voters would turn out at the polls not having to trudge through snowdrifts. Plus, students who are stuck in their classrooms in October could be assigned to go out on special voting trips to see the voting process take place. Making them more likely to want to vote themselves in the future.
I also think the term office length should be extended from 3 to 4 years. Arguably, a Trustee is just as valuable an office holder as an MLA. More important even as they are non political (since they can't have party affiliation) & are working for children, not for any particular cause. In the US Congrssional elections, the House of Representatives has to get reelected every two years. This is stupid as the candidates spend every second year campaigning for reelection, thus being paid to do no actually work in the Congressional Chamber every second year.
In a three year term of office, the Trustee spends the first year learning the job, the second year performing it, and the third year campaigning for reelection (the same goes for Councillors, Reeves & Mayors.) How in the heck are the children's needs supposed to be served if the Trustees are out there on the job for their own necks & no one elses? So lets lengthen the term of office for Trustees (& City/County leaders) to 4 years. Lets change the election month to May. This can happen now David. All you need are 43 votes in the Legislature Chamber David. You are my good sir a very persuasive fellow. I think you know that democracy is best served by this recommendation.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Municipal Act, Province Of Alberta.
Friday, January 15, 2010
For The Good Of All Students
January XVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I know that Catholic & Seperate School Trustees like to keep their decisions and meetings seperate. Even secret at points I suppose. But why not allow for the good of the student populations for the School Boards to meet & come up with decisions as Joint Committees of the Whole? If boards can make decisions say on a human basis jointly that can have a positive impact on both the Catholic & Public student body as a collective, then why not use the brains of one collective. So here in Edmonton it would be 9 Public & 7 Catholic Trustees. The combined forces of 16 team members have to be better than having the boards duke it out with one another.
Of course I realize this will be a little harder for County Boards what with the farther distances between rural points, but there is such a thing as teleconferencing or livechats over the internet. So say a gas leak occurs in the Edmonton neighborhood of 95th Avenue & 163rd Street. This would arguably affect not just the residents of that neighborhood, but also the students of the immediately adjacent Catholic School, St. Francis Xavier & the Jasper Place Composite High School.
Arguably, Principal Stiles of JP will want to get together with Principal Goss of St. FX and coordinate a combined emergency response with public official, emergency responders, and the Trustees of both divisions who are clearly going to be needed to ensure the absolute safety of every child. Just because someone is Catholic or Public in terms of being a student, doesn't mean their life is any less important. This is why Trustees should be given more power & respect. Working as a conglomerate of 16 will help guarantee that each & every student will go on to have a better life & serve this fine Province ably.
If students have two Boards fighting with vitriol over jurisdiction on every point, nothing will get done and the team concept becomes useless. Lets get the Boards of both Catholic & Public onside, not onside for themselves, but for students & their families!
Graciously,
Rory J. Koopmans
Source: The Office Of The Minister Of Education, Province Of Saskatchewan. Hon. Ken Krawetz.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Tossed Salad, Cobbed Salad, Salad Dressing, Vinagrette, Egg Salad Sandwiches
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XIVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I was working an extra day shift for my job at food services at Rexall Place hockey arena yesterday. While I know that there is a Starbuck's there on the lower level with salads and assorted health alternatives, should there not be at least 3 or 4 healthy alternative option concourse level food services stations in the arena?
This not only promotes good education & health, it promotes good educational health & an increased awareness by the school children at Oil Kings games & other events that there are safer and better options out there for them to eat. This can also be done for Oiler games in afternoons and evenings.
Clearly I am not saying shut the main concourse junk food stations down & displace valuable workers. No, I am saying set up little portable stations at tables between the food stations with little tables and a cooler beside them that can be kept full of fruits, salads, & pre cut vegetable trays. Realizing that kids like junk food first, I understand that they'll still want to eat it. But what Daryl Katz, The Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club, Rexall Place, Dominion Food Craft Services Incorporated & Northlands staff have to realize is that by offering the kids a second, more sound and sensible eating choice, there will be a percentage that break away and go for the healthy alternatives.
Certainly David from an educational standpoint this makes sense. But also from an economic standpoint. I know I as an adult would rather pay $5.00 for a fresh, package sealed salad or some lovely assorted veggies than $6.00 for a burned and stale pizza (which is what Rexall sells) & very poorly produced hot dogs & hamburgers (which at points taste remarkably like cardboard or that they have been heated in microwaves rather than an oven or grill.)
Lets educate the kids David & the teachers/parents that ake them to the games. Lets tell them salad is more exciting, more flavorful & more nutricious & filling for them to eat. Of course for purposes of this ermail I cannot state an opinion on the Pengrowth Saddledome in Calgary or any other refreshment selling rink in the Province, having never been to them. Lets make Canada's national sport a point of pride for kids, if they associate salad with hockey players, they'll learn to be in better shape themselves!
My Kudos To Edward Michael On An Inspiring Cabinet Shuffle & Deftly Keeping You In Education,
Rory
Source: "Frasier", NBC Television Network.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Standing Committee On Education Standing Tall Stand By Your Man A Stand Up Guy HandStand FruitStand Standoffish
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XIIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I know this is not exactly new, but why is it that there are no Standing Committees of the Legislature on Education. Arguably as it takes what the second most amount of cashflow next to the Health Budget, there should be a full time 24/7 Legislature Committee looking after the needs of the students of this outstanding Province.
Also, why are the committees rigged with a 95% Progressive Conservative membership stacking on every one of the current 11 in operation? This allows no room for dissent, debate & discussion. This I believe is absolutely intolerable. Kind of makes you wonder why say folks like the Independent Member IV Fort McMurray agree to sit on these teams when its obvious the votes are stacked against them from the beginning.
It is my esteemed & yet humble opinion David that if an Education Committee is set up, it should be set up in a completely different way. One School Board Trustee from each of the two current systems, both Catholic & Public should be made a voting member with equal time & voting power. They are elected just the same as you are (albeit to fixed terms of office of three years) but have hd their power stripped by 80% in the last few years. Thus becoming pinions of the Government & therefore losing both face & overall respect.
To me this is an operation or way of Government planning that is intolerable. Let us return power to the people, lets us make our Trustees admired again. A third representative who also has strong voting rights should be placed on the potential Education Committee to represent the interests of Private Schools & Charter Schools, with a fourth being added to repesent the needs of those students in Post-secondary facilities. If Education is to remain viable & tenable, then it needs to have fair & balanced represntation. How can MLA's, especially Stelmach MLA's with no educational experience in administration of schools be the best representative for the citizens of this Province? In fact, why are there not members of the public on every Legislature Standing Commitee. Some of the decisions they make are quite frankly intolerable & decided in secret without proper consultation & insights from the public at large!
Graciously
Rory
Source: The Office Of The Speaker Of Alberta Legislature, Hon. Kenneth R. Kowalski, MLA, Progressive Conservative, Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock.
January XIIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I know this is not exactly new, but why is it that there are no Standing Committees of the Legislature on Education. Arguably as it takes what the second most amount of cashflow next to the Health Budget, there should be a full time 24/7 Legislature Committee looking after the needs of the students of this outstanding Province.
Also, why are the committees rigged with a 95% Progressive Conservative membership stacking on every one of the current 11 in operation? This allows no room for dissent, debate & discussion. This I believe is absolutely intolerable. Kind of makes you wonder why say folks like the Independent Member IV Fort McMurray agree to sit on these teams when its obvious the votes are stacked against them from the beginning.
It is my esteemed & yet humble opinion David that if an Education Committee is set up, it should be set up in a completely different way. One School Board Trustee from each of the two current systems, both Catholic & Public should be made a voting member with equal time & voting power. They are elected just the same as you are (albeit to fixed terms of office of three years) but have hd their power stripped by 80% in the last few years. Thus becoming pinions of the Government & therefore losing both face & overall respect.
To me this is an operation or way of Government planning that is intolerable. Let us return power to the people, lets us make our Trustees admired again. A third representative who also has strong voting rights should be placed on the potential Education Committee to represent the interests of Private Schools & Charter Schools, with a fourth being added to repesent the needs of those students in Post-secondary facilities. If Education is to remain viable & tenable, then it needs to have fair & balanced represntation. How can MLA's, especially Stelmach MLA's with no educational experience in administration of schools be the best representative for the citizens of this Province? In fact, why are there not members of the public on every Legislature Standing Commitee. Some of the decisions they make are quite frankly intolerable & decided in secret without proper consultation & insights from the public at large!
Graciously
Rory
Source: The Office Of The Speaker Of Alberta Legislature, Hon. Kenneth R. Kowalski, MLA, Progressive Conservative, Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Alberta Education Alberta Beef The Seal Of The Great Province Of Alberta The Wildrose The Snowy Owl
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Excellent performance under pressure last night at the health symposium. Great job under pressure, despite not being the Minister of Health, as an ex Health Minister & the area MLA, you handled yourself with dignity & grace, especially with your jetlag in returning from England. Thank you so much for chatting with me about my health related inquiry as I went last night to strictly see where neurological orders can be addressed. Furthermore, I went to see if there were educational opportunities to learn & understand about Autism Spectrum disorders & if that information can be taught to schoolchildren in assembly's.
I do not know how the information regarding homecare & senior's assisted living facilities could be adapted. But, I feel that outside, neutral personages who have no say in the outcome for Alberta's health future be brought in & trained about the new health standards for our seniors and disabled. I then feel that they should go out & adapt those ideas for teaching in assembly's and even classrooms.
If the students of all ages of today are not taught the proper care for the disabled, sick, intransigent, elderly & dying; how will they as human beings learn to respect & love their elders in their immediate family? We need the students to be educated that Home & Hospice Care have to be at the best of the best in terms of standards, not what Stephen Duckett is doing to seniors services. Frankly, this borders on criminality, if not that, its at least very unethical & underhanded!
Conversely, seniors should be trained to know that they can count on young folks & middle age folks; as well as other seniors for help. Seniors are fantastic people, perhaps joint Community Health courses such as those offered in High School could be offfered at a discount rate to them & their families.
Lets make Alberta great again. Lets educate our entire population that we need 24/7/365 free & clear public healthcare for all. Its the only way that seniors & more importantly the seniors of the future will be happy, healthy, productive & intelligent members of our society in the future!
Where's The Beef,
Rory
Source: Alberta Beef Magazine.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Artificial Is Unacceptable We Need Healthy Ingredients Not Garbage
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January XIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
What we need are a few changes in schools. Not just public schools, but private, charter & encouragement to home and charter school students. The rates of neurological disorders that can be officially linked to the broad introduction of Aspartame into the United States & Canadian markets in MCMLXXXIII through brands such as Nutrasweet & SugarTwin can not be disputed in any way or fashion.
Therefore I propose that an immediate ban be issued on all artificial sweeteners in all schools Provincewide. This would pre-school through post-secondary institutions. I propose that only the sweetener Stevia be allowed as it comes naturally from the leaves of a Stevia Plant & not through artificial means or configuration. Actually, whats ironic is its sweeter in taste & healthier for you. The only other option allowed should be real, unadulterated sugar.
Getting rid of all artificial sweetener packets in cafeterias, student & teacher lounges & areas where special events with food & beverages are being served will be beneficial to the health of all Albertans. We also need to get rid of aspartame in the foodstuffs offered in all of these schools as completely as possible. This should be done immediately & in conjunction with Minister Ron Liepert &/or his soon to be successor in the Ministry of Health.
We as a Province are destroying our bodies and Health Canada & the Food & Drug Administration are literally being bought off to allow aspartame to stay on the market. I bet you there would be less cases of say diabetes if these were the only two sweetening choices on the market. Of course you cannot stop folks from buying these items in stores, thats freedom of choice. But the brains & bodies of kids should have a chance to grow & be nurtured into long & healthy lives.
If you do not believe there are consequences David, then watch the following video link:
http://www.infowars.com/aspartame-sweet-misery-a-poisoned-world/
The time to act is now David. Not when the children start getting sick for no reason. Lets fight this poison all the way!
Always A Gentleman,
Rory
Source: Sean K. Koopmans, B.A., Beijing, China.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Artistry In Motion Art Barns I Make Art Art Carney Art Bell Arthur Miller
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January Xth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
The funding cutbacks to arts programs of the past (& I am sure the ones in your future budgets) are quite frankly appalling. We as adult citizens should be encouraging artistes & young artisans in their pursuits. I realize that this is done through musical programs already such as the Kiwanis Festival at the Arts Campus of Grant MacEwan University; but quite frankly, its not enough.
My suggestion that for Junior & Senior High Arts Credits, we have a yearly competition in which kids come up with their own compositions. They could be jazz, classical, rock, r&b, or alternative sounds. The top three compositions as chosen by former students would get all of their expenses paid to both Calgary & Edmonton. They would then get to play with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra at The Winspear Centre & the Calgary Symphony Orchestra at The Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.
How does discouraging kids from being creative with musical & artistry cutbacks encourage them to develop their inner core talents? Quite frankly, it does not. Lets spend a little extra dough now so that some of these kids become full time taxpaying artists of the future!
Always With Honour,
Rory
Source: The Art Gallery Of Alberta In Edmonton.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Religious Bias
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January IXth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
It seems to me that the Religious Studies 15, 25 & 35 courses offered by the Alberta Distance Learning Centre are just too Christian based. I am not trying to offend Christian believers &/or groups as I am a Christian man myself. But it just seems that alternate courses should be offered in the Religious spectrum. I know that there are comparisons in the courses to other great world religions, but I would & will argue that each religion should have its own set of courses. This would not only offer a chance for new planning & new ideas. But teachers who are Christian can learn about the persectives of other teachers, say Hindu & Jewish teachers.
So what I am proposing is that there are alternate courses taught from other religions and then relate them to eachother & back to Christianity. For Example:
Religious Studies 16, 26 & 36: Judaism.
Religious Studies 17, 27 & 37: Islam.
Religious Studies 18, 28 & 38: Buddhism. Etc, etc, etc.
There should also be interactive tours online of all manner of places of worship, from all over this sublime Province. This will promote equal visual education to students who are less fortunate financially or incapacitated to the point at which they cannot travel to a facility. There should be no barriers to not just education, but religious education. Plus, all students from all religions shuld be able to take the credits for every course in every Religion!
Graciously,
Rory
Source: The United Nations Languages Division.
Friday, January 8, 2010
The Fiddler On The Education System
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January VIIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
It is my opinion that not enough seems to be done in terms of basic language skills for the Jewish population of this great Province, as well as those who might want to learn Yiddish. Therefore, I propose that you initialize the course development of Yiddish 10, 20 & 30. Arguably, there are several hundred thousand Jewish folks living here in Alberta as residents, as well as those visiting as tourists.
Israel is an international player. Jewish Albertans should be able to take courses in their home language so they can better understand their home country. Folks who are not of the Jewish persuasion should be able to learn Yiddish so that they can communicate with their family & friends who are. As well as learn about the rich history Jewish folks have to offer this great Province.
I would say, call the World Jewish Congress David, as well as the Anti-Defamation League. I am sure they would be very helpful in helping you set this process up.
Regards,
Rory
Source: The Jewish Community Centre.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Inclusion For All
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January VIIth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I would argue that in terms of socioeconomic groups, gay and transgendered folks are discriminated against terribly. Therefore, it is my feeling that source material strictly discussing the gay lifestyle and health options available be made to students who may be of this nature. And it should be done for High School credits. Either as part of the Social Studies curriculum of 10-30 or 13-33, or a special course should be created for these students called say Social Studies 31.
I am not advocating or attacking the gay issue. I am also not judging students who may be of that nature. This course would not be intended to promote their chosen sexuality, but to make them feel less afraid about their choice and that their familes still love and respect them. It should be a part of the Social Studies curriculum because Social Studies is that, studying different Social groups.
Adding in this course will make the parents who have youngsters who are gay in nature more tolerant and accepting of their kids. It will also make gay parents pleased to know that the government may not be fully accepting of their lifestyle choice being passed onto their kids, but that they are at least being tolerant & understanding about their differences.
Thanks Sir,
Rory
Source: The Alberta Distance Learning Centre.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Cancer Prospectous Improvisation
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January Vth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I am not sure quite frankly what the overall feasibility of this would be, but what about conducting short term courses & allowing terminally ill kids to write up courses and final exams through distance learning at their hospital/hospice bedside. They should be allowed to have their home addresses typed in on the mailing labels so that they are not reminded that their last place of residence is a depressing medical ward.
It is my sincere belief that dying should not be a barrier to educational opportunity, or at least giving the child(ren) affected the chance to feel that they've accomplished something before they go. So if a kid wants to do Elementary, Junior High, High School, or even Post-Secondary courses while otherwise incapacitated, s/he should be able to do so. Free & clear, of any barriers.
I am sure that the Alberta Distance Learning Centre would be glad to provide the lesson materials at a discounted rate. Perhaps with a subsidy from Alberta Education or the Heritage Fund or Sustainability Fund. I am sure that rich folks and the corporate bigwigs who donate to these terminal units would gladly kick in a few bucks to keep the program sustainable.
As I am in the process of trying to get 200 High School credits & to prove I can graduate High School twice, we encourage prisoners to complete their studies from their jail cells & even go onto technical or post-secondary pursuits so that they become rehabilitated citizens, why do we not encourage kids to dream & believe that learning more might take their mind off of their stresses, even for just a few hours a week. They might even think that they are being healed both intellectually & spiritually.
Always Greatful,
Rory J. Koopmans
Souce: The Cross Cancer Institute.
January Vth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
I am not sure quite frankly what the overall feasibility of this would be, but what about conducting short term courses & allowing terminally ill kids to write up courses and final exams through distance learning at their hospital/hospice bedside. They should be allowed to have their home addresses typed in on the mailing labels so that they are not reminded that their last place of residence is a depressing medical ward.
It is my sincere belief that dying should not be a barrier to educational opportunity, or at least giving the child(ren) affected the chance to feel that they've accomplished something before they go. So if a kid wants to do Elementary, Junior High, High School, or even Post-Secondary courses while otherwise incapacitated, s/he should be able to do so. Free & clear, of any barriers.
I am sure that the Alberta Distance Learning Centre would be glad to provide the lesson materials at a discounted rate. Perhaps with a subsidy from Alberta Education or the Heritage Fund or Sustainability Fund. I am sure that rich folks and the corporate bigwigs who donate to these terminal units would gladly kick in a few bucks to keep the program sustainable.
As I am in the process of trying to get 200 High School credits & to prove I can graduate High School twice, we encourage prisoners to complete their studies from their jail cells & even go onto technical or post-secondary pursuits so that they become rehabilitated citizens, why do we not encourage kids to dream & believe that learning more might take their mind off of their stresses, even for just a few hours a week. They might even think that they are being healed both intellectually & spiritually.
Always Greatful,
Rory J. Koopmans
Souce: The Cross Cancer Institute.
Equivalency, Schmivalency
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January Vth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Why is it that when I, or anyone who is as a promoter of education, by trying to get a 2nd regular High School Diploma discriminated against? Here you have what they call a High School Equivalency Diploma and if you are 20 and over, you get 5 credits for your age. 25 plus, its 10 credits, and 30 plus, it turns into 15 credits for maturity.
Is his not human rights discrimination against people such as myself who are trying to promote Alberta's educational system. You have been sent both my birth certificate & my driver's license. They show I was born at The Royal Alexandra Hospital on November XIth, MCMLXXIV. This puts me at 35 years old. Just because I am trying to get a 2nd Diploma that is in a regular format, does not mean I shouldn't qualify for the maturity credits, clearly as a student, I qualify.
The same rules should apply to all people of all ages, races, and religions. I have nothing to prove as I have a valid Bachelor of Administration Degree dated December IVth, MCMXCIX from Athabasca University. I have 175 recognized High School Credits, so if I get those maturity credits, do I also not qualify for a 2nd Diploma?
Further to my point. Why am I not allowed to have the 10 Credits for my two Life Experience Essays, just because I am going for a regular Diploma & not an Equivalency Diploma. I gave Alberta Education & yourself a valid copy of my two Life Experience Essays, at just over 500 plus words each (your requirement) and was told I did not qualify for those 10 Credits.
This is clearly a human rights & a decency issue. Your requirements included extensive travel, which is what I have done by campaigning as both a Federal & Civic candidate. They also require intensive study. Clearly I have performed this intensive study by getting the credits needed to get a Business Degree from an accredited institution.
So lets change the rules David. More young & mature folks wll graduate from High School & go onto post-secondary &/or technical institutes if they are allowed to garner these credits. Lets make Alberta great again, lets bump up the graduation rate, especially in this time of standard of living and austerity cutbacks. Plus, it would be a bundle of positive publicity for both you & the Department of Education!
Drink Water Rather Than Pop, Its Healthier,
Rory J. Koopmans
Source: The Victoria-Times Colonist.
January Vth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Why is it that when I, or anyone who is as a promoter of education, by trying to get a 2nd regular High School Diploma discriminated against? Here you have what they call a High School Equivalency Diploma and if you are 20 and over, you get 5 credits for your age. 25 plus, its 10 credits, and 30 plus, it turns into 15 credits for maturity.
Is his not human rights discrimination against people such as myself who are trying to promote Alberta's educational system. You have been sent both my birth certificate & my driver's license. They show I was born at The Royal Alexandra Hospital on November XIth, MCMLXXIV. This puts me at 35 years old. Just because I am trying to get a 2nd Diploma that is in a regular format, does not mean I shouldn't qualify for the maturity credits, clearly as a student, I qualify.
The same rules should apply to all people of all ages, races, and religions. I have nothing to prove as I have a valid Bachelor of Administration Degree dated December IVth, MCMXCIX from Athabasca University. I have 175 recognized High School Credits, so if I get those maturity credits, do I also not qualify for a 2nd Diploma?
Further to my point. Why am I not allowed to have the 10 Credits for my two Life Experience Essays, just because I am going for a regular Diploma & not an Equivalency Diploma. I gave Alberta Education & yourself a valid copy of my two Life Experience Essays, at just over 500 plus words each (your requirement) and was told I did not qualify for those 10 Credits.
This is clearly a human rights & a decency issue. Your requirements included extensive travel, which is what I have done by campaigning as both a Federal & Civic candidate. They also require intensive study. Clearly I have performed this intensive study by getting the credits needed to get a Business Degree from an accredited institution.
So lets change the rules David. More young & mature folks wll graduate from High School & go onto post-secondary &/or technical institutes if they are allowed to garner these credits. Lets make Alberta great again, lets bump up the graduation rate, especially in this time of standard of living and austerity cutbacks. Plus, it would be a bundle of positive publicity for both you & the Department of Education!
Drink Water Rather Than Pop, Its Healthier,
Rory J. Koopmans
Source: The Victoria-Times Colonist.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Catholic Tribeca Benedict XVIth
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January IVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Why is it that in the Catholic system there are only 6 Wards, yet 7 Trustees. With the person getting the 7th highest vote total getting the 7th seat. This is not democracy, this is winning a term of office by default.
If all was fair, they should cannibalize the board down to 6 Trustees. Besides saving 1/7th of the payroll costs, you are ensuring that each Ward has only 1 representative. Giving a 7th candidate or second candidate from a Ward gives that Ward a tactical advantage in getting paperwork & grants done. If there is a tie, then a motion like any other government level dies right there. Besides, there has only been 6 Trustees since May XVIth, MMIX when Trustee Jim Urlacher died.
Conversely, I would suggest that a 7th Ward be added with redistricting. I realize it is too late for the MMX October Election. But surely the Board & the Catholic Church & Educational Operatives who are Catholic could agree on a redistribution for the MMXIII election.
Hail Mary Mother Full Of Grace,
Rory
Source: Edmonton Catholic Schools, The Board Of Trustees.
January IVth, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
Why is it that in the Catholic system there are only 6 Wards, yet 7 Trustees. With the person getting the 7th highest vote total getting the 7th seat. This is not democracy, this is winning a term of office by default.
If all was fair, they should cannibalize the board down to 6 Trustees. Besides saving 1/7th of the payroll costs, you are ensuring that each Ward has only 1 representative. Giving a 7th candidate or second candidate from a Ward gives that Ward a tactical advantage in getting paperwork & grants done. If there is a tie, then a motion like any other government level dies right there. Besides, there has only been 6 Trustees since May XVIth, MMIX when Trustee Jim Urlacher died.
Conversely, I would suggest that a 7th Ward be added with redistricting. I realize it is too late for the MMX October Election. But surely the Board & the Catholic Church & Educational Operatives who are Catholic could agree on a redistribution for the MMXIII election.
Hail Mary Mother Full Of Grace,
Rory
Source: Edmonton Catholic Schools, The Board Of Trustees.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Autism Spectrum Disorder Education
Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2
January IIIrd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
It seems to me that your department has done a rather poor job of ensuring there are the maximum dollars allotted to students of folks with autism or the type of have, high functioning autism, commonly known as Aspberger's Syndrome. Its not just I who thinks that, it is the parents & guardians of many students who have this disorder. As well as students who are afflicted with Attention Deficit Disorder, Hyperactivity Disorders, Schizophrenia, as well as other mental/genetic spectrum disorders.
David, you need to convince Finance Minister Iris Evans, Treasury Board President Lloyd Snelgrove & Premier Ed Stelmach to increase funding for these programs. Just look what you could do if you cannibalized & gutted horse racing & equine event government subsidies. This sport is a money loser, both for attendance and the Province's share of gambling revenues generated.
So let this sport be completely privatized. Set up a special education disability fund for autistics and let horse racing live or die on its own. Thats the free market system. I am sure there are many folks out there who agree with me. Investing in kids with disabilities now is more productive immediately & therefore more profitable in the future. Horse & equine events are a thing of the past. They provide jobs and entertainment sure, but like casinos and other forms of private enterprise gambling endeavours, they should receive not 1 red cent of my tax dollars!
Always Appreciative,
Rory J. Koopmans
Source: "Autism Society" in Edmonton Alberta.
January IIIrd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
It seems to me that your department has done a rather poor job of ensuring there are the maximum dollars allotted to students of folks with autism or the type of have, high functioning autism, commonly known as Aspberger's Syndrome. Its not just I who thinks that, it is the parents & guardians of many students who have this disorder. As well as students who are afflicted with Attention Deficit Disorder, Hyperactivity Disorders, Schizophrenia, as well as other mental/genetic spectrum disorders.
David, you need to convince Finance Minister Iris Evans, Treasury Board President Lloyd Snelgrove & Premier Ed Stelmach to increase funding for these programs. Just look what you could do if you cannibalized & gutted horse racing & equine event government subsidies. This sport is a money loser, both for attendance and the Province's share of gambling revenues generated.
So let this sport be completely privatized. Set up a special education disability fund for autistics and let horse racing live or die on its own. Thats the free market system. I am sure there are many folks out there who agree with me. Investing in kids with disabilities now is more productive immediately & therefore more profitable in the future. Horse & equine events are a thing of the past. They provide jobs and entertainment sure, but like casinos and other forms of private enterprise gambling endeavours, they should receive not 1 red cent of my tax dollars!
Always Appreciative,
Rory J. Koopmans
Source: "Autism Society" in Edmonton Alberta.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Year I, Episode I (1)
January IInd, MMX
Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud
Dear David:
It seems to me that in order to get the safest & most nutricious products to schools quicker We need to focus on more organic choices. Not just from organic stores, but also the buying of vegetables and fruit staples directly from farmer's markets and from farmers themselves. This would cut out the middle man, making the farmer a bigger profit & allowing the schools to save money as they would be buying in bulk orders. Thus ensuring less food wastage overall & that children are growing stronger, not just mentally, but physically as well.
There should also be an insistence on behalf of the trustees, school boards, adminstrators, parents, and the students themselves that organic milk and other dairy products need to be made at a greater availability. Displacing pop and high sugar juices as much as possible. Breads & other wheat and gluten products should have soy free factors & specialty breads for children with diseases such as celiacs. Ethnic, fresh baked daily breads need to be brought in as well. This will give kids a chance to try say unleavened Muslim breads like Lebanese Bread or Kosher bread from the Jewish faith.
Food items such as high quality Kosher pickles and meats from Amish farms should also be considered. The more diverse and fresh the selections, the better off & more respectful kids will be as they grow into young adults!
Happy New Year To You & Janet,
Rory
Source: "The Office Of The Governor Of California": Arnold Schwarznegger, Republican.