Virginia Beach Public Schools instituted an “AlertNow” communications system.
“AlertNow allows the school district to send important information quickly – not only to parents but to staff as well – via phone and/or e-mail about emergency situations and school delays or cancellations due to inclement weather. In addition to notifying parents about school closings or delays, AlertNow allows every school to contact parents about important school information and events, testing schedules, report card distribution, open houses, delayed buses, field trips, and more.” (Schools Website)
They didn’t mention that another use would be for attacking City Council over who gets control over fund surpluses.
Superintendent Jim Merrill sent a phone message about the council’s plan to 84,983 staff members and parents Tuesday afternoon using the city’s AlertNow system.
“I feel I must advise you of a possible change to our proposed operating budget that could ultimately affect our ability to preserve jobs and maintain reasonable class sizes,” he said, in part.
Mayor Will Sessoms and council members accused Merrill of politicking.
“It’s not a use I envisioned when I helped institute it,” Rita Sweet Bellitto, councilwoman and former School Board member, said of the AlertNow system.(Virginian-Pilot)
What’s next? A “re-elect incumbents” message? A “call your legislator during a General Assembly session” message.
Mr. Superintendent, use my tax dollars to communicate safety, transportation and scheduling information like you said.
Don’t use my tax dollars to rally political support in a funding issue.
