[Highland Park] Dilworth Elementary Problem
Hello Highland Parkers, I was reading Olga's last email regarding PPS concerns and it reminded me to share with you all a huge issue I had at Dilworth this past year in May/June. I know many of you have children that attend Dilworth and wanted to inform you of the security concern that occurred since the school and school board refused to. A few months ago my kindergarten son who was 5 at the time was in the playground where the door is to be monitored at all times. He walked back into the school from the playground unnoticed, through the school and out the front door -UNNOTICED- several blocks down the street across Highland Ave where he was noticed (thank God by good people) and returned to the school. The people who picked him up were also Dilworth parents and recognized him. Of course angry, upset, and crying uncontrollably, I spoke with the head of PPS school safety/security. He was no help, non apologetic, and referred me to the Parent Hotline in his words "call that number, i don't know who's in that department tho". I filed a police report and also a complaint with the board. I met with the principal Dr. Lamar and told her i would like a note sent home to all Dilworth parents notifying them that such a security concern occurred at their school and the attempts that the school administration was making to ensure it didnt happen again. Dr. Lamar refused. I told her i could easily have went to the news but didnt want to subject myself or family to the media attention. She still refused to inform Dilworth parents. Also, after a week of waiting i finally received a call from Dr. Rudiak the assistant superintendent. She also refused to send notes home to the parents. i personally feel that this is something all dilworth parents should have been aware of just as if there were a chicken pox/ring worm case or other health matter in the classroom/school. I asked her if there were records kept of all school incidents and if they were available to the public. She wasn't sure. I found this response to be unacceptable as well. My son will no longer be attending Dilworth. This incident was just the icing on the cake. I know there are plenty of satisfied Dilworth parents, however, I don't think Dilworth was the right school for him. Although the school is a good school in some ways, there are obviously areas where they need improvement and safety/security is a major one that should not be taken lightly. I even attend board meeting regularly, and the schools definitely need to handle situations better and take accountability like Olga said. Even tho my son will not go there I still have nieces and nephews in that school. Our children are too important for these major issues to be falling on deaf ears. I just wanted to give a heads up to all the Dilworth parents and potential parents. And if there is going to be any steps taken to stand against these issues, please count me in. Angel Cooper Cakeycoop@yahoo.com "Dream as if you will live forever, and live as if you will die today."
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Angel Cooper