CHS PARENTS FEAR CHILA PROGRAM TO BE CUT BACK

Several parents of children in the Columbia High School Instructional Learning Academy (CHILA) -- which helps those with academic or behavioral challenges -- brought concerns to the school board on Monday about what they fear will be a reduction in services.

See the letter the parents submitted to the school board below:

June 15, 2015

Dear South Orange Maplewood Board of Education Members:

We, the undersigned parents of current and prospective CHILA students, respectfully request that the Board of Education pass a recommendation that the CHILA program remain in place without changes to the current program structure for the 2015-16 school year for both returning and new students.  Continuing the program in its current form, which includes separate classes for CHILA students will provide the incoming Superintendent, Dr. John Ramos, with an opportunity to evaluate the program.  

Although Mr. Memoli has stated twice to the school board that CHILA remains in place, the information that has been supplied by him indicates that the “administration is looking to minimize the number of students who require the program by creating opportunities for the students’ success through individualized plans.”  We do not know what this means and we have been told that CHILA guidance counselor and teachers have been re-assigned to regular guidance and classroom instruction.  Further, the CHILA students have been told that they will be returning to regular classroom instruction which is causing some students to withdraw from school and pursue the GED or other options such as the military.  As school board members, we are sure that you are well aware that the life trajectory for people that do not complete high school is far different than those who do and has significant economic, social and psychological consequences.  

CHILA has been an extremely valuable alternative program for numerous students in the district.  It has helped children like ours who were off track for graduation to get back on track.  CHILA should not be altered or dismissed without a thorough understanding and review.  We are making a reasonable, moderate request to ensure that the young people currently in the program and those in need of the program have this option available to them for another school year.  Thank you for your consideration.                                                              

Sincerely,                                                                        

David Britton (father of prospective CHILA student)

Joseph Ford (father of two current CHILA students)
Marina Hernandez Ford (mother of two current CHILA students)  
Bruce Fryer (father of current CHILA student) 
Leslie Kantor (mother of current CHILA student)     
Mary MacDonald (mother of prospective CHILA student)