The Children Are The Future And Edgar Schmidt Knows This He Is A Forward Thinker

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Jasper Place Public Library Terminal #VI, Edmonton, Alberta

April XXXth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmontron-Whitemud

Dear David:

I must truly applaud Edmonton Public School Superintendent Edgar Schmidt on his reorganizational skills. Edmonton Public was becoming too top heavy what with VII Asst. Super's who sat in backrooms instead of being on the front line, where the action is. Where the kids are. So Schmidt deserves a lot of credit for reconfiguring & cannibalizing the jobs into partial administrative & partial hands on immediate problem solving supervisors.

Sarah O'Donnell's column on this in the Edmonton Journal was spellbinding. I agree 100% by Edmonton Public officials what with the closures that they must rededicate their efforts to the kids. Especially fostering friendlier learning environments and as close to as 100% as possible IV high school completion rates.

Working IV Students First,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Sarah O'Donnell.

A St.Albert Protestant Wonder

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., 9 Muir Drive, St. Albert, Alberta T8N 1G2

April XXIXth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conserative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Let us pause to remember the great St. Albert Protestant School Trustee, Mr Ernie Wynychuk. I guess Ernie died of cancer after a long fight, so sorry II his family. I never met Ernie, but have heard how great he was as trustee, coach, mentor, parent, community organizer & friend to all.

If he wasn't respected, he wouldn't have been elected to 3 non-consecutive terms of office IV St. Albert Protestant. I know how great St. Albert can be, what with my positive experiences with St. Gabriel Cybernetic Catholic School. Ernie Wynychuk, whose memorial service is here in St. Albert at 2PM today, you will be missed.

We Can Only Thank The Wynychuk Family IV His Great Service,

Rory

Source: The St Albert Gazette.

An Offer To Edmonton Public School Board (The)

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Lois Hole Public Library Terminal #VI, Edmonton, Alberta

April XXVIIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

In a letter II the Edmonton Public School Board Chairman, Trustee Don Fleming, I made an offer:

I. I offered II City of Edmonton flags IV their meeting room at McCauley Chambers at the Centre IV Education on Kingsway. Their power devolves from the Province, but I believe their should be City flags in the Chamber as they are dealing with City of Edmonton District #VII schools. Which encompass schools strictly in the City limits. Its just a matter of common sense & protocol in my opinion.

II. I also suggested that Trustee Sue Huff (since she has resigned) as Vice-Chair of the Board, back Trustee Ken Shipka II replace her as the Vice-Chair of the Board IV the remainder of the term. This would make up IV her personal attack on Trustee Shipka at the school closure meeting on April XIIIth. It would heal the school board closure meeting breaches. Especially the embarrassing fight she (Trustee Huff) had with Board Chairman Fleming.

III. I also suggested that Industrial Arts & Education students solder the flagpoles since the school system already owns chunks of metal, it will cost them nothing and make it a graded projec, which will excite the students.

IV. Further II point III, I have suggested that students solder & paint new metal letters for placing on the rock surface by the parking lot side of the "Centre For Education" building on Kingsway Avenue. How can the Board talk about repairing & presenting a proper image of its schools when its maintenance crews are not even bothering II repair or replace signage on the main administration building? This is embarrassing. Its about image & respect David.

V. Also, Catholic & Public schools need II merge and build more jointly owned buildings. They must do this II save both district's operating cash. Older schools that are being cannibalized and then combined need to be jointly refurbished. Thus cutting infrastructure costs in half. These older schools could be kept open if both school populations were under one roof. The lower birth rate wouldn't then need to be an immediate problem & less schools would need II be closed.

Graciously,

Rory

Source: Edmonton Public Schools.

Afghani School Poison Attacks

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XXVIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I am glad I live here in Alberta where girls have totally equal rights. These gas attacks, against Afghan girls just because they are female trying II get an education are intolerable. Make sure II get this message through to all women and men or boys & girls in Alberta schools.Attacks against females or any minority group are 100% unacceptable.

Every student should have the right to learn in an environment that is safe & conducive II learning, whether that be in Afghanstan or Canada! We can only pray these young ladies will recover quickly & that their pepetrators are caught and brought to justice quickly.

Graciously,

Rory

Source: Www.AfghanA.Com.

Thats Participaction

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XXVIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

An excellent commentary by Chris Zdeb in today's Edmonton Journal. Animals that are out of shape exercising in tandem with their owners. I like it. If canine companions could be brought into schools IV Physical Education courses, I bet you participation rates by the students would go up exponentially.

They would be excited about exercise again as they know they could pet the dog(s) after class So I truly enourage this joint pet & owner activity.

Regards,

Rory

Source: Www.DogsInCanada.Com.

Teachers Lapdancing In Front Of Winnipeg Youngsters, Thats Intolerable

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XXVth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I cannot believe the behaviour of those teachers in the great city of Winnipeg in the stellar province of Manitoba. I mean it made the "The National" for gosh sakes. Sexually charged lap dances in front of students XIV years old and even younger. This is not only unacceptable, its immoral and disgraceful.

Sexually charged dances between adults of legal and consenting age belong in strip clubs, massage facilities and in private home settings where there are no kids present. I mean what a horrid excuse to set IV students. Sure there is I will concede an age IV kids to be made aware of their bodies but this should be done in properly conducted sexual education classes.

Then to top it all off, the teachers knew the party had been filmed. Did they not think the dance would also not be filmed as well? If not by main cameras, but at least by cellphone cameras? Its just common sense! We need to make sure Alberta teachers are not also engaging in these degenerate mannerisms. The teachers in Winnipeg need II be fired!

Sexual & Hormonal Deviance In Front Of Kids No Way,

Rory

Source: "The National With Peter Mansbridge." CBC Television News & CBC Manitoba.

The French Babiak/Loewen Connection Per Lice

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XXIVth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Please educate your kids and all students on head lice. These highly transmittable bugs can spread widely through student populations by hair to hair contact. If you do not believe me, read the sublime column by Todd Babiak in today's Edmonton Journal in regards II head lice an his adventures with it in focus with his darling daughters (Avia & Esme), gorgeous wife Gina & himself in France. It really is quite a fascinating account.

Educators and parents & kids need to be aware of these horrible creatures. Lice is rampant & if not stamped out viciously can go on in an endless cycle. So put Alberta Education & Health officials on the alert to be vigilant David.

Regards,

Rory

Souce: The Edmonton Journal, Todd Babiak.

A Grave And Civil Matter

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XXIIIrd, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

In an article in the United Church Observer from November MMIX, it mentions how important it is that people care for and respect cemeteries. Specifically of course in a church context. David, I cannot stress how important this is for the students of today. They must not just learn to respect their elders, but their late ancestors as well.

After all, the dead cannot speak IV themselves. So students when visiting gravesites with family or friends should have respect IV their space. If they see garbage around a site, they should clean it up or tell a maintenance crew member. If they see a gravestone defaced or a person committing a crime such as a lewd act or vandalism, they should tell gravesite administrators immediately.

You can't just be a student in life, you must be a student in death and for the dead. Dead people struggled through their lives just as students of today do along with their family's. Learn to love and honour those who came beIV. Respect gravesites, respect those who have lived, loved, and died the best lives that they could.

Grave Consequences IV Dishonour,

Rory

Source: The United Church Observer.

St. Albert Kids Spectacular

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Norquest College Alumni Courtesy Computer #XXXIX, Edmonton, Alberta

April XXIInd, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I would like to congratulate my old bosses at Tim Horton's once again. The work they do through Camp Day & their yearly Children's Foundation Programs is spectacular. I would encourage, you, your lovely bride Janet & all your family & friends to partake in the "Kids Festival" which is being held in St. Albert proper from June Ist-Vth.

Without kids and the sense of family bonding, society would fall apart. This is why its important we educate kids that they are an important part of the family unit. Its also important that we educate their elders on not just to be respected by their offspring; but to respect them in turn as well. So, a huge shout out to the Tim Horton's Children's Foundation & Tim Horton's & the TDL Marks fine Group of Companies! They put kids first more so than any other company I have ever seen.

Go to St. Albert, take in the festivities, instructional sessions & games! Go not IV yourself as a Minister David, no go IV yourself as the great dad of the Hancock kids!

Regards,

Rory

Source: Tim Horton's Corporation.

The Fundamentals Of Police Canines

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XXIst, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Kids in the Edmonton & surrounding areas of the Province, as well as any kids who may live near a City or RCMP Police Canine Unit, must be taught that these dogs our are friends. Certainly they are mean and vicious II a degree, but thats in response II their operational commands. It seems like meanness, but its an intimidation factor II scare the bad guys. This growling & bite gripping ensures a suspect(s) can be controlled until their human cop partner comes along to log in the arrest.

As I just learned from taking the Forensics XXXV course through St. Gabriel Cyber School in St. Albert, these canine officers are just as much an officer as any human. They do not carry guns, but use there sight, smell & toughness to calm stressful situations. Students must be taught not to fear these pooches, but to love and respect them IV keeping citizens safe.

My personal suggestion is that students go in big tour groups to see the dogs in training & take their family, friends and fellow classmates along.

Happy Kindergarten Day David,

Rory

Source: Edmonton Police Service Canine Unit.

Overage/Underage The Divine Town Of Beaumont

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
Jasper Place Public Library Terminal #XVII
Edmonton, Alberta

April XXth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

It seems II me David that with the 600 or more overage in the student population of Beaumont, the Government of Alberta & Edmonton Public should give gasoline vouchers &/or discounted Yellow Bus Passes to truck kids into the unfilled schools in Wards E, G, H, & I. This would at least temporarily bring an increased cash flow. It would also allow the Edmonton Public Board several more years of higher daily revenues, thus necessitating for less than the 76 potential closed schools to be assessed &./or considered for the MMX/MMXI & future years forward chopping block.

I know its a short term David, but according II the Edmonton Journal's Illustrious & Award Winning Education Reportage source, Mrs. Sarah O'Donnell, the Beaumont division is beyond bursting at the seams. So the idea makes great sense.

Graciously,

Rory

Source: The Edmonton Journal, Sarah O'Donnell.

Reconoitre & Transform

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XIXth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Here's a slightly unique thought process. Why not shake things up a bit? Have Don Fleming change places with his Catholic counterpart as Chairman for a month. In this way, each Chairman can see how the other committee works & garner ideas on how to improve their own system.

I got the idea from an episode of M*A*S*H. The officers became enlisted men (& women) for about 48 hours and the enlisted men (& women) were given officer rank. This is quite smart as each side gained a new respect for how the other performed his/her respective duties. Then they wound up working better together. I mean why not, if it helps the kids in the end?!

Regards,

Rory

Source: M*A*S*H, C. CBS Television, Los Angeles California. MCMLXXII-MCMLXXXIII (1972-1983.)

Course Content Configuration

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Lois Hole Public Library Terminal #IX, Edmonton, Alberta

April XVIIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

It would seem to me that if Edmonton Public & Edmonton Catholic coordinated their dollars and put them into joint buildings & online campus sites, they would both increase their level of student dollars. So if a student such as myself wanted to take a High School course offering of English 10, through Metro Continuing Education (which is Public), then I could also take portions of the course through the surrounding Catholic schools.

So say the literature choice was "Hamlet" at Metro, I could ask to read "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare which is being offered by say a south side Catholic school. Metro couldn't really object as the two plays are similar in length, content & overall storyline. This idea makes sense David, cross pattern overlay courses while being allowed to keep my credits as Public, or converting them over to Catholic. Whatever I feel more comfortable with. No pressure to convert, just the continued excitement of overall learning.

Regards,

Rory

Source: The Collected Works Of William Shakespeare.

Sam Shaw Is In A Tough Position

Rory J. Koopmans, B.Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XVIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I strongly urge NAIT President Sam Shaw to keep the 13 targeted programs running. As a graduate of Pre-Business, I am a proud NAIT Alumni. I would feel sad II see these programs go. NAIT has gotten rid of many satellite campus buildings lately & expanded the new attachments to its main facility to the detriment of education.

My advice David is that the President expand online availibiity of his course errata's to students who can't afford to attend campus classes in person. While at the same time continuing to offer in class sessions to those who wish to partake in person. Online bonus students would increase revenues overall while lowering overhead costs for in class attendees and administrative supports such as staff & teaching materials.

Sincerely,

Rory

Sorce: NAIT.

Even Steven Steve Stephen Stephan Steph

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Woodcroft (Westmount) Public Library Terminal #XXI, Edmonton, Alberta

April XVIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

In these stressful times, I believe you should do the honourable thing & give the Trustees back 50% of their taxing power in terms of property taxes. In this way, you still get consulted on each & every decision, line by line in each budget. But the two sides, you & Edmonton Public IV instance have to compromise on each decision.

This way, better decisions and more carefully considered decisions & outcomes can be made off on behalf of Alberta's students. Show Premier Edward Michael that Ralph Klein screwed up when he made this decision.

Regards,

Rory

Source: Roberts Rules Of Order.

2 + 2 + 2 = 6, 2 Flags IV Each Governing Level

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XVth,MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

On a technical basis, why do the Trustees in Edmonton Public not have II City of Edmonton flags in their McCauley Chambers Meeting Room at the Centre IV Education Building? Steve Mandel & City Council have flags representing all 3 insignias.

The Trustees are Edmonton reps after all? Should not the City Flag be represented by the City Reps? This is embarrassing and a huge breach of technical protocol. May I also point out Trustees are City officials under the Municipal Act. They should show the City Flag respect!

Regards,

Rory

Source: The Flag Shop.

Sickening Attitudes At The Public School Trustee Meeting

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XIVth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I got II the Centre IV Education School Closure Meeting at 4pm, IV a 6pm start, not knowing I'd be there till 1:26am this am. But I stuck it out. Kudos to the Trustees IV sticking it out, I disagree however with the decision to close Fulton Place & McCauley, those II schools were just II valuable. But kudos IV their bravery because the ones who voted in favour, well at least some of them will be voted out in the October MMX Trustee Writ.

But what arrogance they were showing one another, at least some of the Trustees towards eachother & administration and vice versa. Trustee Colburn & Trustee Chairman Fleming openly sniped at eachother. Trustee Fleming told Colburn to stick with the subject at hand when he asked unrelated but valuable technical questions. But then he let Trustee Rice blather on about nothing. He had no focus and no control. When he told folks not to applaud at points, he at other points let them do so, sorry, but he should have been consistent & thrown them all the hell out, parents and anyone else.

Trustee Fleming & his Vice-Chair Trustee Huff openly attacked eachother & were bitter about whether Trustee Shipka should be allowed to stay silent. Well according II the closure charter Act, all he has to do is vote, he does not have II communicate his feelings. It goes back to the Magna Carta, British Parliamentary democracy & respect in a debate. Trustee Huff twice chastised Shipka by name & another time inferred that "another Trustee" was too silent. Excuse me but everyone has a constitutional right to remain silent, even upon being charged and arrested.

Trustee Colburn disagreed with the Chairman & then said the Superintendent & Administration were unreassurring or rather "very unreassuring." He treated them with contempt. Trustee Gibson said lets talk about "global issues" thrice. I mean, lets have proper vocabulary. The kicker was they closed McCauley, despite pissing millions down the drain to refurbish it. Plus they cannibalized students into Spruce Avenue IV a combined Junior High, despite it being practically a dump in terms of facility's quality.

The other Trustees were sublime. I know tensions are high & Chairman Fleming made 16 oral mistakes & had to retract & adjust them. But this does not excuse him berating his Vice-Chair. He was beyond arrogant & Trustee Huff just egged him on to make him look horrid. This type of meeting is about the kids, not about scoring political points. Of course if Halvar Jonson & Ralph Klein hadn't neutered the board by taking their taxing power away, they might once again actually be respected & not hated by the public as a whole.

Tired Beyond Reason With Sadness IV The Kids,

Rory

Editor's Note: The meeting was 7 hours, 48 minutes long with only two X minute breaks. I realize the sniping was due II stress factors & I was also stressed and tired IV the kids, the trustees and administration.

Source: Myself.

Decision Day For The Trustees

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XIIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Well it all comes down to this David. At 5:59:59PM the Public School Trustees will break the hearts of some & be popular with others. I just hope for their sake that the crowd is not violent & understands that no matter what the Trustees do, they are in a real pickle. Cuts to funding, your predecessors usurping their power. Perhaps a good idea to make bussing more comfortable for kids who must traverse long distances would be to retrofit retired Greyhound & Red Arrow busses. Arguably this would be a more responsible solution then the current Yellow bus fleets which offer little in safety.

It actually is a pretty decent idea since there are lavatories on the back of the busses, students who have an emergency need for the bathroom or other special needs students will be able to alleviate themselves right away, rather then holding on until they get to the school & being in obvious physical & emotional distress. In addition, the seats are upholstered to a much nicer degree and offer the extra protection of the latest in seatbelt wear. Plus there are television monitors aboard for the kids so that the drivers can keep them occupied with kid and family friendly movies on field trips. This is smart as kids need constant auditory stimulation.

Eloquently,

Rory

Source: Centre IV Education.

Richard Baker Bakes Up A Great Idea

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Dick Baker has an excellent point on school closures in the April XIth Edmonton Journal David. School Councils with a mix of parents and school folks from administration are a great idea. They could probably find alternatives II at least some of the school closures. As we near thew meeting on April XIIIth, MMX to decide the fate of the schools, I would go one step farther David & say that Dick should say that the youth component in his letters should be composed of all youth types, including students themselves. Both the affected students as well as students from outside the closure youth community who are completely non biased.

You never know what students might come up with David. The children are the future. Lets give them 1st crack at coming up with youth battle contingencies that adults might not have thought of. I am sure the Trustees would be pleased to have any form of help they can get.

Regards,

Rory

Source: Www.PastryNa.Com.

Polish Pride In The Chief Executive

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April XIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

What can be said about the Chief Executive of Poland, his wife & his entourage but that it was a sad day in Poland, Western Russia at the crash site and world wide. But let it not be said that he died for nothing. He died going to a memorial for innocent Poles killed in unmarked graves. By focusing and bringing light upon the terrible events of circa 1940, the President & his team died as heroes. They went to honour Polish prisoners who lived through terrible strife and hardship caused by Former Soviet President & Communist President Stalin.

The Soviets were our supposed allies in WWII. Yet they pulled off this garbage of killing Poles. General George S. Patton, Jr. had it right, Ike should have cannibalized German troops into Allied divisions and we should have knocked out Stalin in 1944 with the German's help. Then we could have avoided communism & the entire Cold War.

Let us all remember the sacrifice of the Polish President & his team, as well as those brave citizens of Poland who gave up their lives in 1940 & the WWII era. Through this tragedy, students must be taught here in Alberta what great citizens the people of Poland are, as well as what good friends they are to us. May the next President (or the Prime Minister of Poland as Acting President) steer Poland forward so that it can garner strength from these tragedies, heal & continue to be a positive member of society focusing on raising up its next generation of children to be a positive influence for Polish society. While at the same time honouring the sacrifices of Polish citizens from the past.

Condolences & In Memoriam,

Rory

Source: Www.GazetaPrawna.Pl.

Run For(r)est Run

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April Xth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I do remember a field trip I took with my class to the Devonian Gardens as well as on my 11th birthday when I went with my friends to the E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant. As part of the High School Forestry & Agriculture component courses, real field trips and virtual field trips online should be made to different forest types in Alberta. Ie: The Boreal Forest, etc.

This will encourage not only forest conservation, but organic growing of fruits and vegetables. As well as a keen interest in forest renewal & safe growing & eating practices with less preservatives by the students. Lets build up our forests & farmfields from the ground up, sparking an interest in kids in becoming the farmers, ranch hands and park rangers, conservation ecologists of the future.

Regards,

Rory

Source: Forestry 1010 Course Syllabus.

I'm Of A Mind Makes A Movie Shall We Dance In Praise Of Art

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April IXth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I noticed on my tour with the Fulton School Staff that there was lots of art works by the kids in the halls. It was fabulous stuff really, mostly just free and clear art, rather than a certain form. So esoteric, but there was free expressionist as well. If the kids at Fulton & other schools could have open art competitions against eachother & the kids could download the artworks of their competitors & put them up in the hallways in a year round competition format, this would encourage togetherness & friendly art competition.

There could also be inter school competitions in neighbourhoods, say with junior & senior high & elementary kids all facing off against eachother. Even public, catholic & charter as well as private schools could engage in this battle. Then city wide grants could be given to kids in every school & the schools with the best grade average overall could then use that bit of funds to find ways in order to advertise and gauge annual private support dollars to keep their respective school open.

Without art we all lose a little part of ourselves. Art rules & if students get a reward for being creative, they may be able to come with artistic & unique ways for keeping the targeted schools (as well as any future targeted for closure schools) open.

My Awesome Newphews Are In Town This Weekend,

Rory

Source: The Art Gallery Of Alberta.

Wax On Wax Off

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April VIIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

It seems to me that wax statuettes of famous Albertans and Canadians should be housed here in Edmonton under the auspices & stewardship of the Madame Tussaud Wax Museum Corporation. While The Royal Museum has mant great historical cardboard cutouts, students can't live history unless IV their Social Studies component, they become a part of it. Nothing better than a 3 dimensional focus.

For ideas on this matter I suggest you dispatch Education officials to the Victoria, British Columbia Madame Tussaud's or get in contact with the company through their website directly about setting up an Alberta chapter.

I Am Now A First Time Dad As I Have Just Become A Cat Owner Thanks II My Nephews,

Rory

Source: Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, Amsterdam, The Netherlands & Victoria, British, Columbia.

No Break No Time Each And Every Action Has An Equal Corresponding Reaction

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April VIIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

In about 148 Hours & 49 Minutes, the Edmonton Public School Board meets in their offices to discuss & nail down which schools they will close. Lets not kid ourselves, they will close some schools. All we can do is pray & hope that they make the best decisions posible for the children of the centralized public district. I for one do not envy them in this task. No matter what happens, there will be many folks against them and a few good Trustees will not get reelected as a result.

Eloquently,

Rory

Source: Centre IV Education.

Passion IV Equal Learning And Quality Library Facility Management

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., Lois Hole Branch Public Library Terminal #VI, Edmonton, Alberta

April VIth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Why not let the database serve for Edmonton Public Library be accessed by Public & Catholic students, as well as their family's. Then let library's access the EPSB & ECSD website servers. If each person can access their library server from their home & school, they'll more likely want to visit library's with their family's &/or friends/classmates.

Its a win/win this idea David. The more visitor you have to the library's by students and their familiy's, the higher the revenue stream each branch will take in. These revenues can then be used to buy literature for the branches, as well as for increasing employee hours and therefore branch hours. More locations could then be opened Sundays. And isn't that we want for all Edmontonians, unlimited library acccess, unlimited learning possibilities!

Most Assuredly,

Rory

Source: Garth D. Izzard.

Denominational Non Judgmental Charitable Functionality Thats Interelated

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April Vth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I was thinking that Work Experience 15-35 could be expanded out to have a seperate component called Volunteer Experience 15-35. This volunteer experience would be done as High School Credit courses and performed in a non denominational, missionary style. So the students could be assigned to work for church groups or mission groups of other faiths. For instance I would certainly be interested in performing good works IV Jewish, Islamic & say Sikh charities (as well as other religious groups.)

Just because a person is of Christian faith such as I am does not mean they shouldn't be allowed to work for and garner Credits with alternative charities. So I if still was taking courses I would work with the Red Crescent Blood Services Group. Coordinating blood drives and fundraisers with people of the Islamic faith. In this way, I could network and make contacts outside my Christian circle.

Peaceful Easter Monday,

Rory

Source: Samaritan's Purse.

Floor Plans Floor Maintenance

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April IVth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Its heartwrenching to say this. But as I had a close look at all of the facilities of the 6 Public Schools in the central district targeted for closure. The one school I would close now upon further analysis is Eastwood. Its rotting infrastructure was beyond terrible. Just looking at the gymnasium made me sick. The plaster peeling and cracking behind the paint. I walked up & down the halls and although a unique design with huge foyers, the building needs to be torn down.

Normally I do not say this about old buildings as I like their character, such as the Hudson's Bay Company Bvilding on Jasper Avenue. But as I scanned the hallways of all 6 schools, I could clearly see that Eastwood was very unstructurally sound. As was Spruce Avenue School. The costs of asbestos repair and maintaining it are just astronomical. To keep Spruce Avenue open as a Junior High in its current state of decay, even after repairs are made is unconscionable. If both schools could be torn down and a completely new school built on the Eastwood lot, I think that would be the better situation.

100% new schools in older areas instead of in suburbs would be a key selling point in keeping these old neighborhoods alive. Its sad to see old schools die. But building a modern building with the latest technologies and building standards has to be more economically sensible in the end. Some of the old architectural nuances of the schools could be incorporated into the new school. Say brick material exteriors as well as keeping the large foyer format. The gymnasium needs to be safer. Why should kids have to worry about tripping over uneven floors. So modernize & focus parents and students attentions inward, rather than towards suburbia.

Have A Glorious Easter Sunday,

Rory

Source: Architecural Digest Online.

Biblical Transcription Calibration

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April IIIrd, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progessive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I have noticed throughout English literature there are many biblical references, such as in Shakespeare & even in modern plays/themes. So what I would suggest is that kids of all faiths be encouraged to read and analyze the Bible, cover to cover. Not to promote one religion over another, but to strictly improve their diction skills and memory recall. The Bible has a rich vocabulary, in particular The King James Version. So why not take advantage of that & let kids have a shot at improving their oration capabilities & overall abilities to cognizantly think & write out reports?

They could then also learn to read and analyze other religious texts such as the Book of Jehovah, the Book of Mormon & the Qu'ran. As well as many others that have been translated over to English. By increasing their phonetic abilities and overall knowledge of religions, you are opening up their mind and their world to a whole new realm of possibilities. They'll become more tolerant, and more capable of carrying on properly vocalized & intellectualy stimulating conversations.

Enjoy Your Easter Saturday David,

Rory

Source: The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

A Cash Disgrace A Child Left Behind Monetarily

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April IInd, MMX

Hon. David G Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

It seems atrocious II me that your PC Party & the Liberals and Alliance have raised so much cash in a recession & yet are allowed to keep it. If you were forced II cede say 1.5 million $ of your profits, then at least 2 of the 6 Edmonton Public Schools targeted IV closure could be saved. Food IV thought David, please just think about it. Having the inner city kids have food in their stomachs is more important than Ed having a strong war chest.

A Delightful Good Friday To You,

Rory

Source: PC Party Of Alberta.

Paper Mache Machinations

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.
#203, 8912-156 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

April Ist, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA
Minister of Education,
Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Hope you are enjoying your spring break. I am unsure of something. But when I was sitting in the gymnasium at Capilano School, I had a gentleman hand me a flyer that was a rigged personal commentary against Trustee George Rice, Ward G. Should this not be illegal? I do not begrudge the gent the right II hand out the flyer on any topic of his choice, but should he not have been limited to the adjacent sidewalk or only as far as the school lobby that leads to the gymnasium?

Whether he is for or against Trustee Rice, thats his total right. But by being allowed to openly spout off political views against the Trustee in written &/or oral formal right in the gym is clearly a course of action that will lead up to say "undue influence." Undue influence of parents, teachers, administrators, EPSB officials, the media, the general public. I am not trying to discourage free speech, but the last thing a parent should be doing is inciting hostility or violent thoughts towards the Trustees who are clearly already in a pressure cooker situation.

Blessed Easter Weekend David To You, Janet & The Hancock Clan,

Rory

Source: A Concerned Parent.