right... wrote on Oct 5, 2006 11:21 AM:
" I'm a student at aquinas high school and i can tell u flat out that at least 60% of the kids that go hear have financial aid helping them out. my parents are about as poor as u can get they work just to keep me in school so yea that rich idea of yours u might want to re-think that. o and by the way yea we are smarter and get better test scores because are parents care enough to put us in a school that will teach us what we need to know, we also work hard for our education so duh... get over yourself
"
To: duh... wrote on Oct 4, 2006 9:05 PM:
" Really? We hand pick the best families and we kick people out? Wow that's news to me...and I go to Aquinas so I'm not sure where you get your facts from but you might want to recheck them. O and what rules does our boys basketball team play by...if they are so different??? "
Current Student wrote on Oct 4, 2006 12:11 PM:
" For starters, I think Aquinas is a great school & we aren't half the things people think we are. Yea some people who go here are rich but most of my friends are middle class who don't have an amazing income. Their parents sacrifice alot to send them here and that's what matters. Also yea we believe in God but that shouldn't play a part on what people say about us. People can say what they want to say but the students here know that truth and that's what matters....really. "
Hmm. wrote on Oct 4, 2006 12:03 PM:
" Go out.. and ask a student from Central or Logan why they dislike many of the students attending Aquinas? Ive been asking people that question for a long time.. the question really stumps people. People need to learn to accept the fact that YES, Aquinas does cost money, but it is not UNAFFORDABLE. Make changes to your current shopping lists, start small and get bigger.
So if someone could please reply to me with a good answer on WHY most students from the public schools "hate" Aquinas students, do so.
"
Aquinas Student Continued. wrote on Oct 4, 2006 11:56 AM:
" In response to the comment about putting Hmongs and African American students in the Catholic School System...
First of all, I thought there were no racial comments allowed on this blog? I remember last year there was some type of artical showing that students from Logan ( I believe ) that were Hmong were in the top ranking section. It isnt an issue of what race you are, its how you apply yourself. The more you apply yourself, and the harder you work, the better off you are. Im sick of hearing all these insults against the Catholic School system,and having to be rich to afford attending Aquinas. It is completely out of line, and you need to make sure you see both sides of the story before you start bashing anything.
"
Aquinas Student wrote on Oct 4, 2006 11:50 AM:
" In response to the September 24th comment about ALL RICH WHITE FAMILIES, that is completely untrue. Yes, some families do have higher incomes than others, and they are able to afford going to Aquinas, but there are also families that have low incomes, and can barely make it by. This doesnt mean that you can not attend Aquinas. I am not asking for any sympathy from anyone, and I personally dont want any. I am being raised by a single parent, who does not have the highest income in the world, but I am still going here. Our family has to cut on many things,such as going out to dinner, movies,special events, and other activities. Why is it implied that if you attend Aquinas you are quote unquote RICH? What is rich anyways?
"
class of 08 wrote on Oct 3, 2006 12:45 PM:
" hmm....thats crazy! why is people hating so much? i mean come on! where is the love? "
aquinas hater wrote on Oct 3, 2006 8:30 AM:
" ya i went to aquinas and it wasnt that much fun. the teachers are the worst and i would not recomend any kids there "
yo wrote on Oct 2, 2006 1:06 PM:
" how many of your children went to a catholic grade school and then went to a public middle and high school? "
To: Only Aquinas students go to College wrote on Oct 2, 2006 12:34 PM:
" Gee, if you were smart enough, you would realize before sarcastically insulting me that I wasn't saying only Aquinas students go to college (that's ridiculous). I was saying that public school students don't just go to college, but they have multiple other paths to go. I went to public school as well and went on to Viterbo. - PROUD college and public school grad. "
From Elitist to those who responded wrote on Sep 29, 2006 2:21 PM:
" First, the word used in the letter I was mocking was "elite," not "elitist."
Next, I have a couple comments to the person who told me to take classes in Puntiation (LOL) and so on. Unless you are describing a specific course those classes I'm supposed to take are not capitalized. I have a Master's Degree from a top flight university. I am quite well educated. In the future I promise to use only short sentences without complicated structures so you are better able to understand them.
Finally, to Grammer Police. Has anyone ever questioned you on the (intended, I am sure) misspelling of your name? That cracks me up. How is my puntiation in this letter? "
grammer police!!!!!! wrote on Sep 29, 2006 9:17 AM:
" To "Elitist": wrote on September 28, 2006 9:32 PM:""Take a lesson in Grammar, Usage of Puntiation, and Spelling before you post on this blog."
What is puntiation? I believe you meant Punctuation - P-u-n-c-t-u-at-i-o-n PUNCTUATION! "
response to 1226 wrote on Sep 29, 2006 8:42 AM:
" What is a "good fit" for one child is not always a "good fit" for another. I am fortunate to have 2 very unique self-motivated, achievement oriented children who have chosen their own paths - public versus parochial. We are fortunate to be able to chose a public school that can provide a solid education and also a parochial school that sets the bar very high academically but also stresses social and moral conscience. "
Patriot2 wrote on Sep 28, 2006 11:07 PM:
" As a strong advocate of public education I am very happy to support the public school system in La Crosse. However, as the mother of an Aquinas student pointed out, this forum should not be used to advance hateful comments against children wherever they choose to obtain their education. Nor should it be used to bash institutions in the public sphere. La Crosse is fortunate to have many different avenues for children to receive a qualified education preparing them for adult responsibilities. "
let it go wrote on Sep 28, 2006 10:44 PM:
" Okay, this definitly needs to be removed from the web site. Too many irrational people throwing up too many half baked opinions. Please take this off of the website. It makes Lacrosse sound like a bunch of ignorant hicks. "
To "Elitist": wrote on Sep 28, 2006 9:32 PM:
" Take a lesson in Grammar, Usage of Puntiation, and Spelling before you post on this blog. May I suggest a class at Central or Logan. Get educated yourself and then you may be qualified to comment on educational issues. :) "
Parent wrote on Sep 28, 2006 8:00 PM:
" Please remove this thread from your forum as I resent it as an Aquinas parent. It is fostering very hateful attitudes towards undeserving Aquinas Students. The Tribune seems to have no problem posting comments from people who choose to call us arrogant and elitist. And after last weekend's incident at the Aquinas/Central game, I feel that this forum is threatening to the safety of my children. Thank you. "
Parent wrote on Sep 28, 2006 7:46 PM:
" Boy, this forum if full of hate for Aquinas students, parents, community. No wonder a 15 yr old Lincoln kid went looking to beat up an Aquinas kid --- he must have learned that type of anger and resentment from someone.
"
re: elitist wrote on Sep 28, 2006 6:48 PM:
" The word used was "elitist" not elite. Surely there's a difference between the two.
And for all the people saying that the original article was talking about ACT scores, yes, you are correct. However, because of the stuffy "us vs. them" comments that followed and because of the very obvious snooty undertones within the original text, people speaking in defense of public schools are right on topic.
It just goes to show that Christian fundamentalists and genuine Christians are two different breeds. I ask you, "What would Jesus do?" Seriously, how do you think He feels about the way all of the elitist-minded private school pushers speak about public schools in a peon-like way? Surely He does not discriminate on the basis of socio-economic group or just plain social class. Wow! "
to 1226 wrote on Sep 28, 2006 6:45 PM:
" why not both in the religious schools? "
to 639 wrote on Sep 28, 2006 6:41 PM:
" eliminate the tax deduction for donations to religions and I would consider agreeing with this. "
to 928 wrote on Sep 28, 2006 6:35 PM:
" The american taxpayer is being ripped off here. You receive money for a Christian organizaton. Where does this money come from? Donations that are tax deductable. This is nothing more than a voucher program in charity clothing. "
to 503 wrote on Sep 28, 2006 6:27 PM:
" since you get to chose what to believe in the bible do you selectively follow the 10 commandments as well? if not why not? What parts of gods words are not true or needed to be ammended later? "
Elitist wrote on Sep 28, 2006 5:24 PM:
" In response to 3:02pm poster:
Since my kids go to Aquinas they are "the elite." My question is: Does that mean I am now a member of the elite? This will do wonders for my self esteem! I always thought I was average Joe, but dang!, my kids are elite!
I want to be elite, too! As long as I am arrogant I may as well be elite.
Don't bother responding to this comment ... I am waaaaay too important to listen to the useless bleatings of you rabble. "
re:concerned newcomer wrote on Sep 28, 2006 3:02 PM:
" Have ya ever been around the Aquinas folks?They drip with arrogance like the guy who keeps getting all the cards in a poker tourney, but it has nothing to do with their school being better.It is all about the clients in the schools, and there is no comparison between the kids that public schools deal with and the elite who attend private schools. "
No such absolute category as Catholic, anti-Catholic, etc. wrote on Sep 28, 2006 3:00 PM:
" All theological, philosophical, and scientific research indicates that there are only two absolute categories of people with positive or good, versus negative or bad, characteristics. Every human that ever existed, exists now, or will exist, falls in either one or the other of these two categories. There are no other categories. The positive or good category includes all people that ever existed, exist now, and will exist in the future that were, are now, or will be, Packer fans. The negative or evil category includes all people that ever existed, exist now, and will exist in the future that were not, are not now, or will not be, Packer fans. It is that simple. All other labels, names, categories, etc. are invalid or artificial --- you either ARE, or ARE NOT, a Packer fan.
"
Only Aquinas Students go to College??? wrote on Sep 28, 2006 2:02 PM:
" Wow, this is quite enlightening. I did not know that Central and Logan students had to go to "Tech. School, or into the workforce" after high school. I wish I would have known that before I graduated with high honors from the local University and went on to receive my Masters Degree from Viterbo University... PROUD Graduate of La Crosse Central. "
in the stands wrote on Sep 28, 2006 12:47 PM:
" uhhh, i didn't graduate from aquinas or from central. ...didn't need to. because i already know how to blog!!! "
Aquinas Parent wrote on Sep 28, 2006 12:26 PM:
" I am a parent of one public school child and one Catholic school child and so have a keen perspective of the strengths and weaknesses of both. One thing I do want to make clear is that not all of us are upper middle or upper class parents. We continue to make personal sacrifices so that our children can exceed in whatever school we choose. A key difference I have found is that there is a strong anti-Catholic sentiment at Central and that has been reinforced in the musings here. "
Isn't learning fun! wrote on Sep 28, 2006 10:23 AM:
" Ms Weber: As you can see from this very long list of comments, there is a subtle distinction between a marketing (development)promotion letter and a lightning rod. Class dismissed. "
Of course... wrote on Sep 28, 2006 8:58 AM:
" they do better on the ACT test. Most (probably all) of the CCS students are going to college, so the whole four years they are taught for this test. Public school kids go on to tech school or straight to a career, so they have to take that into consideration. They have different teaching methods. Catholic schools also get to choose who they let in; public schools have to take in everyone. Public schools have advanced placement classes as well for those who are advanced learners. Basically, private schools are no better than public schools and vice versa. They are just different in their teaching methods and demographics. There are pros and cons to both of them. I am just thankful we don't have the horrible schools that they have in the south. "
Elitist Aquinas wrote on Sep 28, 2006 8:57 AM:
" How many of the private school parents send their "troubled" children to the public schools but their best and most athletic to Aquinas? Some of you know that has happened. Don't lie, Christians! "
A voice of reason: To Ann & Comment on re: public ... wrote on Sep 28, 2006 7:49 AM:
" Ann, how many special ed kids in the public schools take the ACT? Ummmm, I bet it is NONE. The ACT is for college bound students regardless of where they go to school.
Comment on re: The ACT scores at Aquinas have been consistently higher for that long at least. Random assignment isn't necessary because the ACT is a self-selected test. As I have mentioned in previous posts, you would have a valid point if we compared test scores on a standardized test given to the entire student body. "
Choice is all it is: wrote on Sep 28, 2006 6:39 AM:
" Maybe if parents that send their kids to Aquinas stop paying school taxes that goes to public school and instead have those dollars go directly into the "school system" of their CHOICE. I'm sure those dollars could be used for:(eg, take on disabled students, more selective foreign languages, upgrade facilities just to keep up with others local schools, etc). I'm sure ALL Parents that sends their kids to CCS schools want kids that go to public school to do well because as member of the La Crosse Community and a taxpayer, it makes for a brighter future for the community. "
Stirring the Pot wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:48 PM:
" One can only imagine the scores if the school could afford to pay its teachers on par with public schools! "
Concerned Newcomer wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:47 PM:
" It’s unfortunate that the vast majority of posters seem to resent Aquinas. Instead the school should be applauded. Unlike LAX public schools, its scores have been improving year over year. (I suppose the critics would argue they’ve upped their intelligence requirement.) In addition, the decision of those parents to send their student to a private school lessens the strain on the public school system, helping those who choose to go to public schools. "
Aquinas High School Student wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:29 PM:
" Lastly, my sister works in the system, and sure that may give me a whole different perception on the situation, but I know for a fact that every year, for the past 10 years she has had at least one student with a disability, sure with the help of a teacher's aid, but theres nothing wrong with a little extra help at times. Sure, you may call me just another brainwashed product of the Catholic system, but then I guess to be called brainwashed in this situation is a good thing, so brainwashed I'll be "
Aquinas High School Student wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:29 PM:
" In response to our test scores, they are higher because we work hard, want to excel, and have wonderful teachers to educate us. Don't get me wrong I'm not saying that the public schools do not have any of those characteristics, I know for a fact that they do. In response to the "Recruiting", sure we recruit people, but not specifically for reasons of playing sports. We recruit people, so that another student has the opportunity to receive the kind of education that is so hard to find, and that you value so greatly. "
Aquinas High School Student wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:28 PM:
" In response to all of the previous bashes against Aquinas High School, please consider this. I attend Aquinas, and I am not rich. We do not in any way discrimate against anyone, of any race, and I believe that anyone who thinks we do needs to come see for themselves. I'm sure that anyone would love to show you around. As I previously stated I attend Aquinas, and I am not rich, my family receives financial aid which we were so graciously granted by our parish and by Aquinas and CCS. You may be thinking, that I am just one person in a student body of approximately 365, but I know for a fact that Aquinas is there to help if help is needed, to any student at any time. "
Emily wrote on Sep 27, 2006 8:51 PM:
" I graduated from CCS and my education was just fine. However, I am now student teaching in public schools. Catholic schools should do well on standardized test. They teach to the test-i.e. memorizing, rote facts, etc. Public schools encourage different ways of thinking and problem solving. "
AHS Grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 7:19 PM:
" I took time today to sit down and re-read all of the current posts on the issue. I'd like to tackle quite a few personally. First of, the choice to send students to Aquinas is that of the parents. My parents still pay taxes to support the public schools, but sent me and my two younger siblings through CCS because it has been a family tradition. And with this recruitement mumbo-jumbo...our basketball team in 2003 wasn't the best because of "stealing" the good players from outside of our school walls, but because they worked hard at succeeding, a lesson taught at Aquinas. The soccer team for Aquinas was also the first in the La Crosse Area to make a state tournament appearance, and a state-final appearance...we didn't recruit players to play for us...we worked hard. "
Ann wrote on Sep 27, 2006 7:15 PM:
" I'd like to know how many special ed kids are enrolled that take the ACT at Aquinas. Oh wait, Aquinas doesn't have to take special ed kids if they don't want to. "
Comment on re; public vs private education wrote on Sep 27, 2006 6:58 PM:
" You are correct. They are just tooting their own horn, which everyone is susceptable to do at some time. The only way this issue could be resolved is to randomly assign students to schools with no exclusion of any student for any reason. Then if their scores were consistently higher for five to ten years, you and I might believe it. Otherwise, it can't be considered a serious claim. "
re public vs private education wrote on Sep 27, 2006 5:19 PM:
" I think that this report/advertisement on ACT scores (by the marketing director for Coulee Catholic Schools) is great. The unstated implication is that this means Catholic schools in the region provide "better" education - whatever that means. I'm not sure one can draw that conclusion based on average ACT scores. Some of the negative response seems to be due to the perceived chauvinism that goes along with this whole topic -maybe unavoidable given the different missions the two systems have, but I would not agree that there is a significant difference in "education". "
A voice of reason wrote on Sep 27, 2006 5:03 PM:
" Oh and to "God". Catholics do believe in a virgin birth, but so do most Christians. Catholics do not believe dinosaurs and man existed at the ame time. The Vatican accepts evolution as a thoery and natural selection as a method of speciation. Also, Catholics accept much of the Old testament as an allegory, not fact.
Get a clue.
"
A voice of reason wrote on Sep 27, 2006 5:00 PM:
" Re Aquinas coach wrote: "The quality of students is on decline and Aquinas gets to pick there students.It is an unfair comparison..."
Again this is wrong on at least 3 counts. The quality of students overall has not declined. what evidence do you have? Do you really think kids are dumber now than before?
Second, Aquinas doesn't get to pick its students. They may be self-selected, but if the Catholic schools had a choice they would want 1,000 or 2,000 more students.
Finally, IT IS a fair comparison. ACT takers are all college bound (or at least college interested) students. More general achievement tests WOULD yield an unfair comparison. The ACT does not. "
Aquinas Coach (cont) wrote on Sep 27, 2006 4:59 PM:
" "Nothing so pompous ior arrogant as a parochial school fan or caoch I might add."
This attack was unnecessary as nothing in my original comment was pompous or arrogant. Also, my actions in my function as a coach have never been pompous or arrogant, and I actually have a friendly relationship with coaches from both of the public schools in La Crosse. "
Aquinas Coach wrote on Sep 27, 2006 4:59 PM:
" To the person who replied at 3:12 pm:
"The quality of students is on decline and Aquinas gets to pick there students."
You don't really believe that the quality of education in public schools has gone down because kids just aren't as smart as they used to be do you? Thats a large discredit to current students, and I doubt they would appreciate that opinion.
"It is an unfair comparison unless 25% of your student body is learning disabled and over 50% is on free and reduced lunches."
Actually if you read what I wrote, I said that too much focus is put on this comparison instead of what can be done to improve public school education.
"
a scary future for our children wrote on Sep 27, 2006 4:53 PM:
" It is terribly disheartening to read all of these negative comments on both sides of the issues. We are the parents of the students of the future. If students are reading these comments, they are most assurably going to grow up narrowmindedly like we seem to have.
Our family moved from Minneapolis to LaCrosse 8 years ago and found all the schools in the city to quite wonderful, both public and private. We chose a private school because we wanted a faith based curriculum. Our children are not athletic, not top of their class and we are of mixed race. I think "to each his own". If it does not work out in one school it is ok to find another without critical comment on the first one. "
re Aquinas coach wrote on Sep 27, 2006 3:12 PM:
" The quality of students is on decline and Aquinas gets to pick there students.It is an unfair comparison unless 25% of your student body is learning disabled and over 50% is on free and reduced lunches.Poverty is connected to underachievment in schools and Aquinas families have enough money to pay tuition. Nothing so pompous ior arrogant as a parochial school fan or caoch I might add. "
Stop sterotyping wrote on Sep 27, 2006 2:23 PM:
" As a parent of public high school graduates I feel that I have a right to voice my concerns about the criticism of public schools. While our children attended Catholic schools we heard awful exaggerated comments about the public schools. After transferring, our children received an excellent education in the public schools, attained very high ACT scores and are now doing very well in college. There was excellence,high standards, and quality education at the public schools we've been involved with. "
Mentoring wrote on Sep 27, 2006 2:02 PM:
" Kudos to "AHS coach" on an articulate response from a student who (regardless of his/her ACT score) has a bright future. Thank you for mentoring. This Aquinas bashing attitude here spilled onto the football turf this weekend. One public school kid broke the jaw of another public school kid thought to be from Aquinas. This community's leaders are products of public and private school systems and took the best and managed to overcome the worst in the system they were placed in. Now they work together. (Medinger/Swantz/Vue working on the Hmong Community Center) Aquinas parents are paying income and property taxes to support the public schools and choose a system they have "faith" in to give their children a good chance at a bright future. They are supporting the public students and their own to ensure the best possible outcome for the next generation. "
A voice of reason wrote on Sep 27, 2006 11:54 AM:
" I forgot to respond to the comment printed in the paper edition of the Tribune. The effect of one large salary (Tom Newberry's) on the average salary in the group (among geography majors) is not analagous to a test score situation.
First, ACT scores have a cap of 36. Large salaries have a mauch greater affect. The ability of one, or even a few scores, to affect the test score average is limited.
Second, this is not a random sample. It is a self-selected group of college bound students. Making comparisons between these groups is entirely reasonable unless the size of one group is very small.
Having said that, it must be stated that drawing conclusions about the cause of the difference is speculation at best. "
GOD wrote on Sep 27, 2006 11:48 AM:
" I agree with "so what"
"How smart could these kids be? They think we came from Adam and Eve, they think virgins can get pregnant, and they think dinosaurs and man live side by side. WOW not to impressed!" "
Aquinas Coach (cont) wrote on Sep 27, 2006 11:21 AM:
" is on the decline.
Maybe part of the reason for this decline in the quality of education is shown in some of the attitudes revealed here. Attitudes such as believing that kids are automatically going to be smarter because they come from rich white families. Or comments such as "I'd like to put about 30 Hmong and African American students in to Aquinas High School and see if those test scores don't drop! I bet they'll drop like you wouldn't believe!!!". Aside from the fact of the latter comment being completely racist, both comments show a willingness in our population to have lowered expectations for kids simply because of their race or background. When you lower expectations and put out the message to kids that they can't achieve at the highest level then it should come as no surprise when they do not. "
Aquinas Coach wrote on Sep 27, 2006 11:21 AM:
" I currently attend UW La Crosse, and in my time here have had the opportunity to coach at Aquinas High School. In my experiences there I have found the students and the parents to be great to work with in all circumstances, and have enjoyed my time there greatly. First, I would just like to speak about the stereotype that all students at Aquinas are rich and white. In fact, neither stereotype is accurate about the makeup of the Aquinas student body.
Moving on, what disturbs me most about conversations like this is how people constantly ignore the real issues and are just so outraged over something insignificant that it breaks down to little more than an argument consisting of "Aquinas sucks" and "No they don't suck". When in fact the real issue is the fact that the quality of education in public schools "
ahs grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:52 AM:
" The same things happen at public schools in regrad to un-christian like behavior among believers as they do at catholic schools...its life, people make mistakes, and they grow up and learn from there mistakes...and the comment about priests and boys? really! in la crosse? Ummm Tribune isn't that a very nasty stereotype!? "
A voice of reason wrote on Sep 27, 2006 9:03 AM:
" I never said that poverty wasn't an excuse for low test scores. I said poverty wasn't an excuse for a lack of parental involvement. My parents both worked long hours 5 or 6 days per week and they still found, no they MADE, the time to make sure my homework was done and so on.
I went to public schools by the way and have no axe to grind against them. My main point was that those people who don't believe that ACT scores provide a valid comparison are wrong. "
Grammar police wrote on Sep 27, 2006 7:08 AM:
" So much for the Tribune's policy on not posting comments containing racial, religious or personal attacks. Hmongs, African-Americans, priests, teachers, white families and Catholics all slandered. Great to see tolerance and love is alive and well in the public school system. Be careful of irresponsible stereotypes. It would be like someone accusing a public school graduate of not knowing the proper usage of the words "to, too and two". TOO funny.
"
to 8:38 pm post wrote on Sep 27, 2006 7:06 AM:
" This is not a place to post names of students. This all happened in my daughters class. Yes, I know his name. Actually, it was the year after the championship. But, no he was no star--whatsoever! "
AHS Grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 1:01 AM:
" I hear the same thing about public schools in the La Crosse area...but do I say that ACT scores are because Aquinas has rich white people? NO! it is simply because the students at Aquinas and CCS are held to a higher standard, and academic level. Which I attribute to the relationship and ratio of teachers to students. "
AHS Grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 1:01 AM:
" but let's not get carried away here people...public and private is a choice, just like learning and applying is a choice....there are no "drill sergeants" here...you want drill sergeants? send your kids through basic training, been there done that...don't jump to conclusions based on what you HEAR... "
AHS Grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 12:59 AM:
" Granted when I went through Aquinas their were serious disciplinary issues that seemed to be handled differently based on family status, and involvement, many people from the La Crosse area may remember, considering it made the news. I am proud to say I graduated from Aquinas and CCS... "
AHS Grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 12:59 AM:
" Now I really want to respond to the issue of race and poverty that was last commented on before. CCS offers tuition and help to families that cannot afford to send their children to CCS schools. Race and Poverty are no issue. All a student needs is a little confidence, and some hardwork to get a good score on the ACT. "
AHS Grad 04 wrote on Sep 27, 2006 12:58 AM:
" Alright, let's be real here people! We have all had our fair poke at Ms. Weber's statements. However, this argument will not ever be settled. Their are perks to both public and private institutions, we all know that. I have experienced both sides. Public institutions offer more classes, and the expense of the student to teacher ratio. Private institutions offer a better teacher to student ratio, and focus on college preparation. "
Recruited by God wrote on Sep 26, 2006 11:54 PM:
" The feeble attempts to bash Aquinas are entertaining if nothing else. Too bad there isn't a system, or say a standardized national test that would compare the performance of our private schools to the public schools. Perhaps something like the ACT for instance????? The Aquinas students and staff have every right to be proud of their achievements and hard work. Aquinas continues to be one of the greatest assets to this community. "
re: Gunny wrote on Sep 26, 2006 11:50 PM:
" Your experience reflects the exact experience we had when our children attended an elementary Catholic school. We also left and our children became better students and happier, more confident children. It truly was sad & very disheartening to observe very un-Christian attitudes & behavior at a Catholic school. I've always been a very involved volunteer at both schools, and thankfully our entire family has had wonderful experiences with the public schools. Hopefully the Coulee Catholic Schools directors are reading these comments. "
Dan D wrote on Sep 26, 2006 11:16 PM:
" Lets not get too hurried to brag about the Catholic way - or are some of you conveniently forgetting about a few small problems your Priests seem to be having with young boys ??
Or is it the boys' fault AGAIN ??? "
Re: A voice of reason wrote on Sep 26, 2006 10:09 PM:
" How is poverty not an excuse for lack of parental involvement? You obviously don't know what it's like when both parents are working two jobs just to barely get by. When a child comes home to an empty house where they have to learn how to study without parents around. Most of these kids never learn to focus on school work. Poverty is a big factor when comparing a rich school district to a poor one. Comparing Milwaukee to a place like Waukasha would be a perfect example. If poverty doesn't affect test scores and ACT scores then wouldn't the two districts above have the same test scores? It's been proven economics makes a huge difference in schools. Why don't you give us a reason why rich districts do better on the ACT if poverty isn't a factor? "
too bad wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:41 PM:
" Your (Catholic schools) adminsitration is affraid to offend through discipline. I know of a catholic MS student who was picked on continuously...told the staff, administration and NOTHING was done. terrible experience. don't tell me $ doesn't talk. "
to: to:doing things right wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:38 PM:
" do you want the name of this star player from your championship team that was involved in this incident? "
Gunny wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:09 PM:
" My two kids have attended Coulee Catholic Schools and La Crosse Public Schools. We have seen effective, dedicated teachers in both environments. We had some very good experiences in CCS but we left because of an elitist, cliqueish attitude at several levels and because discipline seems to be applied differentially depending upon your family status in a parish. There also seems to be a subtle bigotry directed at those perceived to be less than Catholic. In our experience, the level of discipline in CCS really isn't where it is claimed to be. How a child performs academically is determined most by the level of involvement of parents and the focus in the home on education. We have seen a lot of public school bashing in CCS, it is disappointing and inappropriate. Ms. Weber's statistics are questionable at best. "
A voice of reason wrote on Sep 26, 2006 4:26 PM:
" The letter mentioned ACT scores, not standardized scores, in general. That comparison would, in fact, be unfair.
ACT scores are for those considering college. Even in a public school it is a self-selected group of, presumably, high achievers. About 60% of the high school students in our area take the ACT. About 90% of Aquinas students do.
Aquinas scores are higher. There are a number of possible reasons for that, but whatever the reasons, the fact remains. Personally, I believe that when you pay extra for something you make sure you get your money's worth. Aquinas parents probably on average expect and demand more from their kids.
Poverty is not an excuse for lack of parental involvement. "
to "Just a Thought" wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:57 PM:
" are you kidding me ???? the school decor??? the schools are out of date, thier computer program is a relic, the kids are quiet because if you say one word you'll get an 'infraction' sent home. They are little robots. I sent my kid there and finaly woke up last year from my CCS nighmare. They did NOTHING for my kid, you wouldn't belive the change in him after putting him in public, he finally can be a kid and have his own personality and have fun while learning!! CCS is a waist and I predict it won't be around much longer. "
Miserable wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:54 PM:
" The word I use to describe my son's experience in CCS. The teachers were a bunch of boring, uptight, drill sergeants. I got a call at home saying my son's desk was messy. NO JOKE. Yet when he needed extra help, it was like pulling teeth and a constant battle to get help for your kid. If you think the school is great because of the wealth of some families think again, I've co-mingled with these people and they bring NOTHING to the table, I was actually bored talking to them. Public school this year has been a wonder breath of fresh air. My son actually said "I love my teacher"... words that NEVER came out of his mouth after 5 years at the dumpy CCS. "
Logan 05 Graduate wrote on Sep 26, 2006 3:37 PM:
" Yes, Aquinas can give you what you need to get an exceptionally high ACT score, because they can do all that you fools listed below. However, I recieved an ACT score that I would not trade for the National, State, or Local average. My father works two jobs--i barely saw him; my mother worked what seemed between 10-12 hours per day; I worked about 20-22 hours per week; and my sister worked 10-15 hours per week AT AGE 14! There is no correlation between type of school and ACT score. Let the educated of these institutions bicker--we're EDUCATED enough to make logical arguements. "
RE: Two Points to Make wrote on Sep 26, 2006 12:13 PM:
" Exactly! That is the second point. Ms. Weber is PAID to do her job and was able to get FREE press. Will there be any printed reciprocation? rebuttal? I was just as surprized, as many here have reported, to view this obvious advertizement in the opinions collumn. Let us hope Public Schools do not (thankfully) hire an Administor for Marketing. "
Well, obviously... wrote on Sep 26, 2006 11:23 AM:
" They SHOULD be doing better. They don't teach the same population that public schools teach. I say let's let one public school switch with one private school for a year and see if you can come up with the same test scores. Most of the parents who send their kids to a private school care enough to pay for their education. Public schools teach all children, even if they are born to parents without money, high intellect, lots of time, or even compassoin. You are comparing APPLES AND ORANGES. Period. "
re: Just a Thought wrote on Sep 26, 2006 11:18 AM:
" Our children initially attended a private school, however as a family we chose to transfer to a public school. The decorum at the public school was excellent.The principal & teachers were very professional and respected each child as an individual. There was an atmosphere of respect, the students were welcoming,kind and well-behaved. Our children, who are now college students, had a wonderful successful experience with public schools. It's too bad that so many Catholic school parents & staff continue to belittle the public schools and make negative comments. I think they've forgotten their Christian teachings. "
YOU KNOW IT!!! wrote on Sep 26, 2006 11:10 AM:
" CATHOLIC WAY = THE ONLY WAY.
"
CHS Grad wrote on Sep 26, 2006 9:27 AM:
" I'm Catholic and I went to public schools my entire life, I had an excellent education and was inspired by my teachers. Private schools (in general) have smaller class sizes and have more families that are able to dedicate more time to their children's education; not to mention ability to get their children the resources they may need, i.e. tutors. These factors greatly increases a child(s) ability to do well in school. If a private school is growing too quickly they can stop accepting students where as a public school can't. Unfortunatly, this leads to overcrowding and students falling in the cracks because they are doing well enough but not reaching their full potential. I know smart adults that went to public and private schools but I also know many less smart adults that went to public and private schools as well. "
To: "come on" wrote on Sep 26, 2006 9:12 AM:
" So how many Special Education students take the ACT? You are a "box of rocks" indeed! "
unfair comparison wrote on Sep 26, 2006 9:08 AM:
" Catholic schools get to pick their students.Public schools deal with whomever shows up at their door. "
Response: wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:58 AM:
" To the party who wrote in at 12:28AM inquiring about the last state championship won by Onalaska Luther. Read the results of the girls track meet for the last several years. Two of the daughters of Luther AD Joel Babinec both won state tiltes in more than one event. No doubt Luther waged an intense recruiting battle with Onalaska High School to get these two fine athletes to enroll in their school.
The youngest daughter (Erica) placed in two events as a sophmore at this past year's track meet. "
What a laugh! wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:54 AM:
" Pulling our kids out of Coulee Catholic Schools and sending them to Lincoln Middle and Logan HS was the best thing we ever did. Our only regret is that we didn't do it earlier! CCS has the luxury of picking and choosing which students they will accept and woe to any kid that has learning disabilities of any sort...they will not expend any effort to help that kid and in fact, will make that kid feel guilty - "personally responsible" - for having a learning disability. This letter was written by a marketing person for marketing purposes -- i.e. B.S. "
Just a thought wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:50 AM:
" Before I placed my child in CCS I went over and spent some time there. I was most impressed with the decorum. The children walk, are quiet in the halls and playground, respectful, oblivious to clothing or whats 'cool', and their overall behavior is a cut above. I placed him and years later am happy I did so. Now, don't you think this background also has a good impact on learning? Of course it has to. This children's enviroment is certainly better or more condusive to learning as we all have allowed the lowering of the behavior bar in public schools. It is night and day. "
to: to:doing things right wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:41 AM:
" Rich kid--yes BB player--not hardly. It is a pity that unruly kid wasn't sent to a public school toot sweet, but Aquinas kept him. According to these comments it is suprising. "
To: Come On wrote on Sep 26, 2006 8:39 AM:
" This letter was about ACT scores - do you know how many special ed students actually take the ACT? "
just an independent observer wrote on Sep 26, 2006 5:41 AM:
" it obvious to me what ms. weber's motive was by printing the letter...however, after reading all the comments to date....this one really backfired in her face...wonder where she got her marketing degree? "
Hey Darral (1:43) wrote on Sep 26, 2006 12:39 AM:
" I finally agree with you.....go figure. "
come on wrote on Sep 26, 2006 12:33 AM:
" come on Aquinas...how many special ed students do you have as a percentage of your population? this box of rox can do that math! "
to: doing things right: wrote on Sep 26, 2006 12:32 AM:
" You had a teacher sexually harassed (bit) a few years ago and the administration did NOTHING (legally) to that student...he should of had charges on him......in fact...female teacher was blamed for the incident. Rich, white BB player walks...don't tell me you are doing things right :( "
Darral Faas wrote on Sep 26, 2006 12:32 AM:
" To the imposter using my name on 9/25 @8:49am: Since I am not saying or using an elitest tone but you are. Private schools are not required to take in or make room for students that have troubles beyond the classroom if they so desire. Furthermore, I have family that worked within the local catholic schools and had a daughter that attended when she was much younger. That information through experience plus research puts me ahead of the curb as compared to you, the imposter. Please stop using my name while I am at work on these blogs. Or are you looking for legal action against you. I dare you to face me away from employment so as to set you straight on impersonating someone. "
to: Recruiting-Private School wrote on Sep 26, 2006 12:28 AM:
" well duh...when is the last time Luther won a state championship in anyhting? "
J.E. wrote on Sep 25, 2006 8:15 PM:
" Parents and kids together, taking education seriously enough to be involved. This is the new minority in America. This minority finds ways to afford the tuition to go to a private school. This minority does not take life as something that is a non-chalant nuissance that must be lived. This minority attends Aquinas. It's no wonder the class sizes are smaller than public schools, teachers being allowed to correct behavior, tolerance actually taught not lip service. DUH! I think scores are a clear reflection of this type of unusual behavior - taking education seriously. "
BOTH WORLDS wrote on Sep 25, 2006 7:28 PM:
" I went to Central and my wife went to Aquinas. Let me say that kids get out of school what they put into it and they'll get even more if their parents take an interest in their learning. Income has nothing to do with educational success, good parenting does. We send our kids to Catholic schools because we want an element of faith in their schooling.
The statistics Ms. Weber quote are encouraging, but worthless. There are a lot more students in public schools to bring the average up, or in this case down. When using statistics, consider this: At one point, the average salary of a UW-L Geography major was over $300,000. One of their graduates was...Tom Newberry, offensive lineman in the NFL.
"
A thankful American wrote on Sep 25, 2006 5:37 PM:
" A few comments: One basketball player (who is Catholic) transfered to Aquinas. He was not recruited by Aquinas. He chose Aquinas over the local public schools. Secondly, there is a very wide spectrum of economic backgounds represented at Aquinas. Some the best students at Aquinas come from very humble backgrounds. Finally, parental involvement and student desire play a huge role in academic results. Aquinas is lucky to have involved parents and dedicated students. "
On the other hand..... wrote on Sep 25, 2006 5:29 PM:
" .....maybe it's because they are a private school and they are allowed to beat some sense into their students. Public schools aren't allowed to do that. Just a thought. "
To: Two Points to Make wrote on Sep 25, 2006 5:14 PM:
" If the public schools would out-perform the private schools that would be awesome. But it would not be Ms. Webers place to bring that up - I would hope that someone at the public schools would do that. MS. WEBER WORKS FOR COULEE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS! It is her job to point statistics like this out when they are in her favor. That is like expecting a banker to write in to the paper to let everyone know that a different bank's interest rates are lower. "
RE: Reminder wrote on Sep 25, 2006 5:00 PM:
" Amen !
Same thoughts here exactly.
Also, as an Aquinas Alum, a Catholic, and a parent of successful public school graduates, I am donating less money each year to the church because of their constant preaching that Catholic education is the only worthwhile education. How elitist and narrow-minded. "
Reminder wrote on Sep 25, 2006 4:42 PM:
" This letter is a reminder why I don't send contributions to Aquinas anymore. Talk about snooty! "
To: AHS grad wrote on Sep 25, 2006 3:57 PM:
" I think this letter was taking advantage of a situation at the expense of others for opportunistic purposes. There is a delicate line with this type of thing. I think this letter went over that line. That's all. Let the debate continue. "
Public Educator wrote on Sep 25, 2006 3:16 PM:
" Private Libraries -Private Money; Public Libraries -Public Money. Private Schools -rivate money; Public Schools use public money. It is great that they have higher scores. In fact, they should. Remember the purpose of Public Education is to educate ALL to become productive, voting citizens. Public educators have absolutly NO control of who walks into the doors. We take them ALL. Students at private schools have families who are involved enough to pay extra for that option, thus higher scores. Parents pay extra, thus they feel obligated to be more involved. As an educator, the lack or excess of money does not compare to parent and family emphasis on education. Moral of the story: Be involved in our children's education. Involvement assists student success, no matter which facility they are in. Our La Crosse Public students are indeed fortunate to have the support from home that we do! Thank you! "
Salaries wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:29 PM:
" God demands sacrifices. AHS teachers are just following their faith and adding to the plus side count to "ensure" their entry into heaven. There problem not mine. "
To wouldn't it be great wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:26 PM:
" You can do that. Put your money up and you can send your kid anywhere for their education. Please do. "
Add to So what wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:23 PM:
" One told me once that at the time god created earth, it also created all the things we find today that show that the earth is older than the bible says. I guess that god knew that we would need a reason to argue about its existance. Dumb god. "
Two points to make. wrote on Sep 25, 2006 2:12 PM:
" Our La Crosse schools are great facilities promoting education. La Crosse is lucky to have the options of quality public or private schools. I recall a statistics instructor saying, "Liars figure and figures lie." My first point is one should not too much value in arbitrary numbers. Secondly, who will write the editorial when the public schools outperform the private schools? I doubt Ms. Weber would bring those statistics to light. "
AHS Graduate 05 wrote on Sep 25, 2006 1:10 PM:
" To all of the people who claim that Aquinas is full of rich white families, I am here to tell you that you are wrong. My parents were not rich by any means and do not live in LaCrosse. However, my parents elected to send me to Aquinas BECAUSE OF AQUINAS' DEMONSTRATED ACADEMIC SUCCESS. Due to the education I received at that school, I scored extremely high on the ACT and was able to go to college with the help of some scholarships. Rich White People? Not me. Aquinas is just doing things right, apprently not like the public school system. "
Success: wrote on Sep 25, 2006 12:47 PM:
" The success or lack of success in life (I realize that this is an individual definition for each person) is usually determined by the indivdual's home life and not by attendance at either a public (Central/Logan) or private (Aquinas)high school. I know of a family in Bangor with four children. Two of the children graduated from Onalaska Luther High School and two from Bangor High School. All are college graduates and currently experiencing success in their chosen occupations. Also, I believe that each student has different abilities and needs. Some kids do well no matter where they attend high school. Other kids may be better off at a particular high school based on size, location, public, private, class size, special needs, specialized programs etc. "
BLUE STATE BRUCE - Re: 11:57 poster wrote on Sep 25, 2006 12:36 PM:
" Your comments about Ms. Weber doing her job and AHS providing an excellent education are well-taken; however, the AHS test scores remind me a bit of the Soviet Space Program. Since the scores aren't public knowledge, we only hear about the AHS successes. Public schools face scrutiny no matter what. As for your statistics - the minority population in the public schools is quite a bit north of 5.8%. Let's compare apples to apples, shall we? Ms. Weber's letter certainly implies that if you want your student to score better on his ACT, he should attend AHS. Stating that point without including many of the demographic advantages the private school has over the public school is shameful. "
how many wrote on Sep 25, 2006 12:24 PM:
" of you know exactly what the % of minorities were/are in your graduating class? Much less from 10 years ago? Credible or just trying to salvage what they can? "
Here' s and idea wrote on Sep 25, 2006 12:19 PM:
" All I have read is catholic this...public that... What about the students? Isn' t this what we should focus on? "
Ahead of their time wrote on Sep 25, 2006 12:11 PM:
" Today a virgin can get pregnant via a medical process. To bad the Christians didn't advance their level of science. Oh ya, doesn't make as good of a story. Just think where we would be today if their god had the will to actualy help it's so called children. just another deadbeat parent. "
AHS Graduate wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:57 AM:
" As an AHS Graduate, I would find it sad if Ms. Weber did not point this success out. Her job is to market area Catholic Schools, so if the Tribune doesn't report on this success story - it is her job bring it to their attention. I also didn't read anywhere in her letter that you should only contact the Catholic Schools if you are a rich, white, two-parent household whose kids are really good at basketball. FYI - My graduating class over 10 years ago had 5.4% minority students (where La Crosse County only has 5.8% minority residents today). There were also a number of students from single-parent households in my class. My experience has been that AHS provides a good quality educational option for college preparatory work. I think that is all Ms. Weber is trying to point out. "
SO what wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:53 AM:
" How smart could these kids be? They think we came from Adam and Eve, they think virgins can get pregnant, and they think dinosaurs and man live side by side. WOW not to impressed! "
If not white then rich wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:51 AM:
" My folks couldnt afford to send me there after the Catholic grade schools bled them dry. Once,my folks asked for help they basically said you haven't given enough so to bad so sad. Just proves that when you put money into education you can by any gpa. "
Wouldn't it be great? wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:50 AM:
" Wouldn't it be great if all kids could go to the school of their choice, based on the actual performance of the faculty? Wouldn't it be great if parents could pull their kids from underperforming schools and send them to schools with more emphasis on discipline and achievement? Oh right--too many unionized teachers are against the voucher system. "
Also score well wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:48 AM:
" in loving the students. "
Education is what you make of it. wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:48 AM:
" Kids who want an education can get a great education anywhere (public or private). Those kids whose parents care that their kids do well in school typically do well. You don't need money to care about how your kids do in school. Take some personal responsibility in helping your kids succeed. "
GOD wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:47 AM:
" Who cares if they score better, they still think that dinosaurs and man lived at the same time. How funny. "
RE: salary issue wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:37 AM:
" Big surprise for you? I thought it was common knowledge that public schools pay MUCH better than private schools. Maybe the teachers laughed because they thought is was rude and inappropriate for you to be discussing their salaries and pointing out how little they make. How is this relevant to this article? "
Nestor wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:19 AM:
" Just last week I sat down with two Blessed Sacrament teachers and shared a few scales of Lacrosse School Systems pay/benefits with them. They were so taken back that they virtually laughed, apparently not knowing what else to do when informed about the disparities. They were not receiving anywhere near the same level. I found it at least, interesting. "
Nestor wrote on Sep 25, 2006 11:12 AM:
" TRUE STORY- I spoke with a couple of teachers just the other night. I informed them of a few of the pay/benefits offered in the Lacrosse School Sysytem. They literally laughed at the disparities. To put it plainly they were blown away. "
Catholic Schools spokesperson ? wrote on Sep 25, 2006 10:05 AM:
" I find it sad that this spokesperson from the Catholic schools felt it necessary to suggest that there is higher value of one type of school over another. Public schools also offer academic excellence & discipline. As for faith formation - we provide that in our home on a daily basis. Test scores are only that - current standardized test scores. ACT scores are not the way to evaluate the quality of a school or the long-term success & happiness of it's graduates. "
Exclusive v. Inclusive wrote on Sep 25, 2006 10:00 AM:
" Comparing the ACT scores at the private schools v. the public schools illustrates how misleading and useless those scores can be. It is common knowledge that "undesirable" students cannot and do not attend Aquinas. The public schools don't have the ability to "cleanse" the student body. What parent wouldn't want their child to attend a school with smaller classrooms and all "distractions" removed? But...that is not the real world. The kids at the public school see that there are troubled people, criminal conduct and bureaucracy in the real world. Speaking from experience, small, private schools are exclusive and difficult for those who aren't "brains" or "jocks". "
Aquinas High School Grad wrote on Sep 25, 2006 9:23 AM:
" I am personally offended by many of the things said in this comment section. I think you all need to grow up. I never once thought that AHS kids were smarter or richer or better than CHS or LHS kids. This article has made everything think that private schools are bashing the public schools when all it is doing is facing facts that the ACT scores were higher. Thats it. Period. Now get over it and get a life. "
tests dont measure much wrote on Sep 25, 2006 9:19 AM:
" The important question isn't what the scores are, it's what learning was sacrificed to get them "
eastrong160 wrote on Sep 25, 2006 9:18 AM:
" LOCAL OBSERVER: you need to stay on topic, BLUE STATE BRUCCE had a valid point, if you are so concerned with media bias write a well constructed statment to the trib for print.
and to TO: public school grad, lighten up, public school grad attacked no one and made a very good statment, a statement you obviously didn't understand "
re: Of course... wrote on Sep 25, 2006 8:58 AM:
" Before you make your accusations that only "rich white kids" attend Aquinas, step into a classroom. As a teacher, I have dealt with many of the situations you referred to in your post: single parent families, immigrant families, learning disorders, behavior disorders, etc. So please, before you generalize make sure you have your facts straight.
"
Darral Faas wrote on Sep 25, 2006 8:49 AM:
" Your myth about Catholic schools is so lame it's hard to even talk to you. The myth that Catholic schools are for the elite has been debunked so many times it's pitiful that you could even say that with a straight face. Get at least SOME facts before sticking foot in mouth. "
Teach (2) wrote on Sep 25, 2006 8:38 AM:
" Cont....
I know these students did not get the high quality of special services offered at the public schools. Their parents made the choice. The students are now grown men, happy and productive. Parents need to do what they feel is best for THEIR child!! "
teach wrote on Sep 25, 2006 8:34 AM:
" We live in the USA. This affords us the opportunity to choose our route to educate our childred. Parents need to do what is best for their children. Catholic schools do not have the funding to bring special needs students to their full potential. I taught at a Catholic school that had a few Down's syndrome students. They were accepted with loving, open arms because it was the choice the parents made. "
more equal than you think wrote on Sep 25, 2006 8:31 AM:
" Keep in mind that these scores are comparing college bound students (the test takers) to other college bound students. Not EVERY student is required to take the ACT, and in Wisconsin, more than 30% don't. "
Local Observer wrote on Sep 25, 2006 5:14 AM:
" Hey, BLUE STATE BRUCE, did you add a letter to your name? Talk about PAYING for advertisements, how much are the Democrats PAYING the Tribune to print at least ONE Anti-Bush letter every day? Today the Tribune Editorial Board wrote the Anti-Bush letter. Maybe Kind, Kohl, Feingold, and Doyle can fix EVERYTHING. "
Darral Faas wrote on Sep 25, 2006 1:35 AM:
" The difference between private and public schools is simple: Private ones are NOT REQUIRED to take all comers, public schools do. If a student at a Catholic school needs learning help like special education, they are sent to the nearest public school immediately. And if the grades don't come up immediately, they are not renewed for the next school year. Result is higher test scores for private schools while the public handles their rejects. I know this done locally, and have checked this against various other locations throughout the country. "
Public vs. Private wrote on Sep 24, 2006 11:26 PM:
" Ah, the age old public school vs. private school debate.....
I attended both public & private schools & so have my own children. I personally prefer the quality of education at public schools for multiple reasons. It was the public high school and their teachers who most impressively prepared our children for college & the real world. The gloating attitude by a Catholic school employee perfectly explains why I am so very glad that my children received a public school education. "
BLUE STATE BRUCCE wrote on Sep 24, 2006 8:47 PM:
" Anyone who believes that this is comparing apples to apples probably also believes that a certain basketball player transferred for 'the academic rigor.' Was this letter written by a professional educator? Oh wait, it was written by a marketing director. It is no wonder that CCS has hired a marketing guru given the exodus of their high school students to public schools in the past few years. Ms. Weber certainly has a right to her biased opinion; however, most other newspapers would require a fee for her advertisement. "
A Pity wrote on Sep 24, 2006 8:38 PM:
" It's a pity they also aren't taught to think. "
ACT scores-Madison: wrote on Sep 24, 2006 6:37 PM:
" Within the past week I read an article that 6
Madison high school students had scored a perfect 36 on the ACT Test. All of these students attended a public high school. I would attribute higher ACT scores in Madison to the fact parents in Madison have both a higher income and education level than parents as a whole in La Crosse. "
re: parliamentarian wrote on Sep 24, 2006 6:18 PM:
" Nice try with the big words on a topic related to education, unfortunately you misspelled "parliamentarian" "egregiously" and "appreciate"...good job on opportunistic though. "
To: public school grad wrote on Sep 24, 2006 5:49 PM:
" So what you're saying is Aquinas recruits good test takers/basketball players, right? Imagine the odds. Being a good test taker and being a good basketball player. What are all the Aquinas students in the band doing? Maybe they're just good test takers. Your generalizations are shameful at best. Just be happy that there are students attending Aquinas. If they weren't, your property taxes would even be higher. I'm assuming that you do own a home and pay property taxes. Can I make that assumption, or might that offend you? "
Of Course..... wrote on Sep 24, 2006 5:23 PM:
" Of course the public schools ACT test scores are lower. These schools truly service all children. As an Aquinas graduate I find it hard to understand how Catholic schools, purportedly reflecting Christian values, justify their hypocritical behavior. How many students do you see in Aquinas from single parent families? How many students from immigrant families? How many students from the local group homes? How many students with learning disabilities? How many emotionally disturbed children do you see at Aquinas? My children are in the public schools because I want them to receive a well rounded education and to be exposed to a variety of individuals, not the isolated, cookie cutter, brainwashed, parochial approach that separates students from the real world. "
Sports Recruiting..... wrote on Sep 24, 2006 5:10 PM:
" As an Aquinas graduate, and as a parent of children in public schools, I know for a fact that Aquinas does recruit public school students for athletics, because a child of mine was recruited. "
To: obvious wrote on Sep 24, 2006 4:57 PM:
" You are correct...almost. It's not so much "income", per se. It's what you do with what you have that makes a difference. If you have kids and your thing is jet-skis, 4-wheelers, bass boats, snow mobiles...you know, the crap that really makes worth while, then your children will end up wearing a "git er done" hat and living in a double wide. However, if invest in in your children (they didn't ask to be here...you made them), then you got it figured out. "
obvious wrote on Sep 24, 2006 4:06 PM:
" Anyone who knows even a little bit about schools and success could tell you that OF COURSE private schools will score better. The number one and two indicators of student success in school has to do with parent involvement and family income. Both of these are significantly higher in private schools. Having graduated from and student taught in a private school, I can tell you that they definitely do not have a better education system. "
RICH WHITE FAMILIES wrote on Sep 24, 2006 2:53 PM:
" Hey "ah yes", ever consider that "RICH WHITE FAMILIES" send their kids to private Catholic schools because know the [not so] secret to a better life? That would be education. Not grilz, not 12 carot chains, not baggy jeans, not fancy rims on an 81 Honda, not designer clothing for a 2 year old. "RICH WHITE FAMILIES" are rich because they know what's important and what isn't. Invest in the future, not the present. Moron. "
Aquinas Parent wrote on Sep 24, 2006 2:41 PM:
" What is the with the bashing of the Hmong students? My kids tell me that they are some of the brightest students at Aquinas--What a deal--smart rich white kids, smart poor white kids (that's us) and smart Hmong kids! What are they doing right at Aquinas?!? "
ACT Test: wrote on Sep 24, 2006 2:32 PM:
" Who is fooling who? How many so-called disadvantaged students attending a public high school take the ACT/SAT test. "
to: ah yes wrote on Sep 24, 2006 2:31 PM:
" If I remember correctly, the gentleman who was my AHS graduating class's VALEDICTORIAN was a wonderful Taiwanese man - not from a rich white family. And there were several well-to-do young men and women who were at the bottom of the class. Work ethic was stressed among us - and that's not always something that goes along with inherited wealth. Do give the students some credit that they are working hard, as well as the teachers who take a pay cut to work at a private school. Rich kids may attend Aquinas - but some families (like my own) lived on a tight budget as a sacrifice so we could afford the education provided. And saying that the scores would automatically drop if African American or Hmong students attended is rather offensive. "
Recruiting-Private Schools: wrote on Sep 24, 2006 2:27 PM:
" All three of my children have graduated or are still attending a private high school (Onalaska Luther). All private high schools attempt to enroll 100% of the kids that attend the private grade school(s) associated with the high school. Students attending Luther must apply for financial aid based on the individual parent's circumstances. It has been my experience that there is not any specific "RECRUITING" of athletes going on. Over the years a ton of kids who attended a Luther Grade School and were good athletes chose to attend their local public high school (Logan/Tomah/Caledonia) etc. Often they made this choice because of the greater competion offered at the public school (MVC). If there is so much alledged "RECRUITING" going on at Aquinas why is their overall enrollment decreasing and this year's football team has a so-so record. "
public school grad wrote on Sep 24, 2006 12:58 PM:
" I don’t know how familiar any of you are with what the ACT is or what it tests. High scores on the ACT doesn’t equal intelligence. What it means that they simply take tests better. The ACT, SAT or any type of standardized IQ test is very imperfect, and by itself means very little, some of the most successful people I know in college and in the community scored well below the La Crosse average.
(but recruiting does equal cheating in basketball)
"
re Catholic schools score better wrote on Sep 24, 2006 12:49 PM:
" I guess that is because they have God on their side. "
Matt wrote on Sep 24, 2006 12:48 PM:
" And the brainwashing comes FREE! "
Parliamentarin wrote on Sep 24, 2006 12:05 PM:
" With all due respect, MS. Weber, your letter is eggregiously opportunistic while disregarding many more variables that the Public Schools must address in meeting the needs of all. I do, however, appriciate your right to write letters. "
Rich White Families wrote on Sep 24, 2006 11:45 AM:
" An old myth that never was true and is not now. If you'd look at the actual data...but of course you wouldn't be interested. Much better to try to make yourself feel better and take the heat off the failing public schools. How about some Catholic bashing too? Come on, you can do it. Catholic schools have discipline and teach morality. That's the main reason they're better. But of course that's politically incorrect isn't it. "
To: To: duh..... (3:49am) wrote on Sep 24, 2006 9:35 AM:
" Hey, poster, I resent your comment. Signed: Box of Rocks. "
Rocket wrote on Sep 24, 2006 9:25 AM:
" Class sizes in La Crosse exceed 25 for required classes, how many students are in Aquinas classes? How many of their families are directly involved in what happens in their student's lives? How many students at Aquinas are suspended? To believe that Catholic schools and public schools do the same thing is not understanding how schools work at all. Public schools can't make excuses, but please, we are certainly not comparing apples to apples here people. Is gloating about test scores and your schools an appropriate attitude of Catholics? Doesn't seem like it should be. "
Product of... wrote on Sep 24, 2006 9:21 AM:
" As a product of twelve years of Catholic education, I most diagree with Ms. Weber's assertions. Just as it was thirty-five years ago when I attended the local Catholic high school, students who didn't fit the mold transferred to the public schools. Today the school is more elitist than it has ever been.
Like it or not, the public school system is still the only level playing field we have.They accept everyone--not just those who will score well on some standardized test.
Public school scores will bounce back. This is much ado about nothing. "
SLIDER wrote on Sep 24, 2006 8:23 AM:
" The classrooms should have the same number of students as public schools and have the same books and learning materials. So what if they have to pay a fee to attend it works in the same principal as school district taxes. They should allow anyone willing to pay into the school, they are kind of on the side of discrimination during the selection process. Do they charge extra for students out of the district, they should just like the Universities do with people from out of state. "
To: duh..... wrote on Sep 24, 2006 8:09 AM:
" That's right...you just keep making up excuses to make yourself feel better (are you union?). Meanwhile, back on the ranch, life doesn't really care about excuses. Life only is concerned with performance, with results. Maybe we all need to play the game by the rules proffered by Coulee Catholic Schools. Where do I send money? Oh, that's right, I already do. "
To: duh..... wrote on Sep 24, 2006 3:49 AM:
" I can see that you are a perfect example of our fine public school education system. You, my friend, are dumber than a box of rocks. According to your fine reasoning, the best basketball players must also be the best test takers too. Can I assume anything else from your post, other than th
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