Gaggini Returning as ASD Acting Assistant Superintendent
Substitute Assistant Superintendent Dr. James Gaggini (on right), hired in October, will remain in the role until another official is hired for the position. Armstrong School District will be under the new leadership of former West Shamokin High School Principal Chris DeVivo as superintendent this fall. (KP File Photo)
by Jonathan Weaver
While Armstrong School District’s top administrator will not renew his contract before next school year, his assistant will stay on an emergency basis.
Substitute Assistant Superintendent James Gaggini was unanimously hired by school directors in October following a leave of absence by Dr. Lyn Logelin, and his appointment could have remained until the last day of the school year.
At Monday’s regular school board meeting, Gaggini told The Kittanning Paper he would remain in the role until another appointment is made.
According to personnel documents, Assistant Superintendent Lyn Logelin took a leave of absence effective September 29 through May 9 and applied for retirement effective in May.
In 2008, Gaggini retired after 35 years as an educator and administrator, lastly being named Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education and Pupil Services.
School Superintendent Stan Chapp announced his intention not to renew his contract with the school district at the March 9 school board meeting. He spent 35 years in public education.
(“I’m) very proud to have been part some of the incredible changes here the last several years, and I truly thank the Board and the community for their support I’ve experienced in the district. I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed the people here the most of every place I’ve been,” Chapp said at the time of his announcement.
Chris DeVivo, currently superintendent of schools at Freeport Area School District, was named the future superintendent in May after a unanimous vote by school board directors.
According to personnel documents obtained following the regular meeting, DeVivo – of Kittanning Township – will serve as superintendent locally for the next five years, beginning on August 15 when Chapp’s contract expires. He is to be paid $164,000 annually.
Chapp – who also served as Armstrong superintendent for five years beginning in August 2010 – comparatively was paid $150,000 his first year, according to his original contract, and received a nearly-four percent raise every year thereafter if he did not receive an unsatisfactory rating.
DeVivo was previously the principal at Dayton Junior-Senior High and was the first principal when Dayton and Shannock Valley consolidated into West Shamokin Junior-Senior High.
DeVivo formerly was also Armstrong’s Human Resources Director before leaving to become superintendent of schools at Freeport in the fall of 2010.
More than 30 teachers, secretaries and support staff retired during the school year.
Administration Payroll Secretary Janet Boarts led all retirees with more than 40 years of service, while Administration Payroll Manager Marsha Bodnar retired just short of those 40 years.
More than a third of those retirees - including eight from the now-closed Kittanning Senior High School - each worked for the district more than 30 years.
Armstrong School District | jweaver June 10, 2015
By Snarf, June 10, 2015 @ 8:40 AM
I’ve noticed this, and it’s not just ASD, but how these superintendents just flip flop between districts like they do. The district where I went for most of my school years (I did a few years in ASD in jr/sr high) it was always the same guy. Can anyone shed any light on why this is? I’m guessing money.
By Yougottago, June 10, 2015 @ 10:28 AM
Why no mention of how much Gaggini is making? Probably is costing us more to pay him per day that to hire a new Assistant. Why not give someone new a chance to lead alongside Chris? Seems like it would be the perfect time to have TWO new leaders in the top spots since the district, in a way, is starting from scratch and is headed in an exciting, new direction. I say out with the old and in with the new.
By sickofpayingforit, June 10, 2015 @ 5:07 PM
District Superintendants. The ones making more than four average families in ASD. I read where they get a four percent raise if they don’t get an unsatisfactory rating.
Who rates these people?
What are the criteria?
Test scores and taxation levels should be the rating system. How many mills in taxes are we paying for each percentage point in grades. I don’t know how they can view the performance any other way………..
By admin, June 10, 2015 @ 8:00 PM
Dr. Gaggini is making $450 per day, as confirmed by the ASD Business office. That is $117,000 per year. However, since he is formally retired, he works on a “per day” rate rather than annual salary. However, he is still working the full 5-days per week (full-time) schedule.
By Yougottago, June 11, 2015 @ 2:22 PM
Sickofpayingforit- I’m sure you would agree that the Superintendent has a fraction of a percent in dealing with student test scores. It’s the dedicated, hard working teachers, aides, secretaries, custodians, etc. that are the ones that get the job done. I guess no one else feels the way I do. I don’t even live in the Armstrong School District but Gaggini’s deal seems like a Good ‘ol Boy’s club deal to me. Can anyone shine a light on the reason why this is still considered an “emergency” situation regarding Gagginni’s rehiring? Why not hire someone new now- have them get the experience rather than wait 2 or 3 years when Gaggini packs it in again? It’s your tax money, not mine…
By Patzu, June 11, 2015 @ 7:36 PM
This is really disgusting. How much more do these people want to milk the system? What merits were earned by Gaggini to receive this kind of wage? Who made the decision to keep this guy onboard?
Maybe some new ideas and new approaches for less pay for a younger person would be more beneficial to to the students and the taxpayers.
This is just gross mismanagement!
By wonderwhy, June 11, 2015 @ 9:19 PM
The teachers and Administrators of ASD are taxing us right out of our homes. The teachers are making $80,000 a year. The Administrators are making twice that much. How many people in Armstrong School District area make $80,000 for 180 days. They have the best benefits also. We will never get people with good jobs to move to this area because they won’t pay the high taxes mthey are moving to Butler and surrounding areas because the taxes are lower. Our district doesn’t receive high scores. If the student population is 53% low income how can teacher justify making that much money for 180 days. There are not many more types of jobs that get paid that much. Their pay is from our tax dollars. I am sick of getting taxed to death to pay high salaries for others.
By sickofpayingforit, June 12, 2015 @ 12:17 AM
Yougottago—-
I see ASD as a multi million dollar corporation that’s ONLY product is educated students. The Superintendant must be the CEO given that obscene salary package so yes, he is ultimately responsible for the finished product a.k.a. test scores. Currently this corporation has not represented it’s shareholders very well and in a private sector setting, management probably wouldn’t be faring so well either…….
Consolidate worksites to require more money for operating costs??? That sounds like a punchline to some witty joke in some swanky Wall Street bar…..
By India, June 12, 2015 @ 10:27 AM
First of all…why do we even need an assistant superintendent? Would not this be the perfect time to cut costs and eliminate a position ? Secondly…since Gaggini is already a retired admin. from ASD, is he still receiving his pension on top of what we are now paying him.
By cartman, June 12, 2015 @ 6:34 PM
Jim Gaggini is a good man, and we are lucky to have him.
By Patzu, June 12, 2015 @ 8:16 PM
Good guy or not…..what are his accomplishments in regards to education and is worth the kind of money he is being paid?
I think the overwhelming answer from the taxpayers would be “NO”!
By Just sayin, June 12, 2015 @ 11:45 PM
While you’re at it, complain about the professional athletes that get millions per year while there are starving children in the world.
By Patzu, June 13, 2015 @ 7:06 PM
Totally different situation with athletes. Let’s not try and take the focus off of the issue.
People decide to spend money on tickets and merchandise in professional sports.
The ASD taxpayers did not choose to pad Gaggini’s wallet with their hard-earned money through taxes.
Nobody has been able to come up with one favorable thing he has done in regards to improving education in the ASD.
Absolutely shameful!
By Rainbow Rider, June 14, 2015 @ 7:46 PM
with pay like that gaggini should be able to afford to rent a paddle board
By Yougottago, June 14, 2015 @ 8:01 PM
No one is saying Jim is not a “good man.” However, no one has addressed my original question as to why his rehiring is still considered an “emergency” situation. Sometimes teachers get hired on an emergency basis to take over a position until a replacement is found and permanently placed. DeVivo was hired, probably from a pool of candidates for Superintendent, yet no one else was even considered for the position as assistant? Maybe the term “emergency” fits the ASD if that is the case. Women and children first…
By bison4ever, June 15, 2015 @ 1:06 AM
There are a lot of new and exciting changes coming to ASD this next school year. The opening of the new school is no small task. I think having as many hands available to make sure all goes smoothly with every school throughout district while the transition is going on is a good thing.
By Just sayin, June 15, 2015 @ 1:34 AM
That was a good one, Rainbow Rider!!
About the athlete thing, tax payers pay (in part) for the stadiums/courts that the athletes use. People do not decide on that. The comment was referring to the bigger scheme of things. Patzu.
As far as talent, Dr. Gaggini has way more credentials than most athletes, in my opinion. He was highly respected working for the school district. He has a doctorate degree. That’s the salary a doctor makes (some medical doctors make $450.00 per HOUR or more).
Maybe someone can find out what a comparable salary would be of someone else with 35 years of experience who has come out of retirement temporarily to help a school district.
No one else is stepping up to do the job, as far as I know.
By Just sayin, June 15, 2015 @ 1:48 AM
A temporary leave of absence could be considered an emergency situation if no one is qualified at the time for that person’s job or wants the position. No one else wants it because Dr.Logelin will be coming back, presumably. Then a non-retiree would be out of a job when he does come back. This way, Dr.Gaginni can go back into retirement. Maybe the ASD Board directors want an experienced person to get things started properly for a brand new school. I don’t know.
What can we do about it besides complain —Find out what he should be paid and start a petition?
By mary02, June 15, 2015 @ 3:16 AM
@Rainbow Rider, Excellent point! He will be the first only one out there on a paddle board.
By lowfatlowcarbnosugarcheesecake, June 15, 2015 @ 11:23 AM
Colonel Sanders, Excuse me… Dr. Gaggini…
Does ASD need ANOTHER assistant superintendent? Do we need anymore fat cats sitting at the top of the tree while we continue chopping from the bottom? I mean seriously we just laid off how many teachers! I would rather see more teacher positions than see another administrator with a fat paycheck.
Yougottago, I think ASD is always in an emergency situation. If they hit an ice berg (they probably have) they would just keep driving the boat and not tell anyone. They’ll just say that they added a swimming pool to the bottom of the boat. But once you see rats leaving, (Chapp (no pun intended), tons of teachers and other stuff), you know there are issues.
So… the answer is no. No we are not lucky to have this KFC look alike…
By sickofpayingforit, June 15, 2015 @ 4:33 PM
I reread this thread and Admin’s posting hit me like a lightning bolt…..
My question is why is ASD offering this person a “per day” rate in lieu of a formal salary due to his retirement status?
I don’t know the rules of this stuff but after pondering this, these are my two gut feelings. And to be very clear, this is all speculation:
1) this is some type of Department of Education rule where they have to pay a retired person a per day wage?
2) this is to somehow circumvent the retirement plan rules so he can still be paid full retirement benefits plus that obscene salary
I would love to know the answer!
By worthingtonman, June 16, 2015 @ 10:57 AM
@Admin
I can not believe you let that post by lowfatlowcarbnosugarcheesecake make it to print. I may agree with the principal of his ideas but not the personal attack on the mans appearance. Grow up!
By Elderton Parent, June 16, 2015 @ 3:13 PM
Just sayin, Logelin is not coming back. She was on leave and went straight into retirement.
They need to let Gaggini go and not replace the position. There are enough high paid administrators, they don’t need another. Logelin is gone. Just like any other business, you need to do more with less.
If you retire from ASD, you are done. IMO, if you are a retired admin, you are done. If you are a retired teacher, no subbing. Most have already skated their way to retirement and would not be effective subs. There are enough younger teachers that are looking for jobs that need jobs. You had your turn, time to move on.
By Yougottago, June 16, 2015 @ 5:42 PM
FYI- Logelin isn’t coming back. So, we are keeping Gaggini because he has so much experience in closing three major schools in a district and building/opening a multi-million dollar new high school? (Yes, sarcasm) Or, is it because he has slipped under the radar once again, will receive his couple or three paychecks every two weeks because no one wants to do anything about it? Seems to me like he IS a very smart man if that is the case! Can’t blame him for that one. Well done Jim and ASD taxpayers, well done…
By Patzu, June 16, 2015 @ 6:11 PM
Sounds like a lot of excuses, Just sayin’.
This is a bloated payment that this district cannot and should not absorb just to take care of one of the clique.
The board needs to explain themselves to the taxpayers with this hiring.
I would be embarrassed if I were Dr. Gaggini.
Where are our state legislators when you need them? They squeak about pensions and then something like this occurrs.
By Just sayin, June 17, 2015 @ 12:25 AM
Elderton Parent & Yougottago: The article stated that Logelin APPLIED for retirement in May. Do you know Logelin personally? Lyn can be a guy’s name. Sorry, I assumed she was a he at 1:48 a.m. when I posted the comment.
So, Dr. Gaggini had that much power that he alone closed “three major schools.”
I’m not making excuses, Patzu. I said to find out what Dr. Gaggini should be paid and start a petition. I’m playing the devil’s advocate and trying to think positively and with an open mind. The people who are against Dr. Gaggini need to complain to whomever hired him and channel this energy to where it is effective. Put it on the news and write to the state representatives if it bothers you all that much. Be braver than writing your complaints here.
Do you think I like paying extra taxes?
But we can’t cry over spilled milk. The school is here. Now we have to make the best of it. The closings were bound to happen sooner or later. I would have liked it later when the economy was better, but I didn’t protest to stop them. So you can blame me and the thousands of others who disagreed with the closings, but didn’t protest to the proper people.
I signed Elderton’s petition to keep their school, though.
If I were starting a multi-million dollar company, I would want to hire someone with experience to manage it, not someone right out of college. That is common sense. As far as I know (correct me if I’m wrong— I’m sure you will), a superintendent/assistant superintendent of a school has to have many years of teaching experience prior to applying for these jobs.
People are killing themselves doing more for less. Multi-tasking creates forgetfulness and high stress levels(researchers have found)and poorer quality of work. I have a spouse who is getting severely underpaid for doing 3 management jobs for one, and he is very stressed out and overly taxed, physically.
Eventually, our insurance will have to pay for all of his future medical bills. This causes our insurance premiums to increase for all. An over-worked horse is not valuable.
By steve, June 17, 2015 @ 7:44 AM
Worthingtonman- Just think, it could have been worse. They could have used LOL!
By jorn jensen, June 17, 2015 @ 8:26 AM
We need to cut costs in this school district. How do we do that?
By Yougottago, June 17, 2015 @ 5:23 PM
So, according to the article, Logelin has not been actively a part of the ASD since the end of September. Her retirement oficially began at the end of May and Jim was “rehired” (once again on an EMERGENCY basis) on June 9th. So, in that nine month period they were able to hire a new Superintendent, but not anyone capable of being an Assistant? Why not just make Jim the Superintendent and DeVivo the Assistant? Or, would that have had an effect on his retirement pension?
By Patzu, June 17, 2015 @ 7:39 PM
Just sayin’ - You keep avoiding the questions. What does Gaginni bring to the table? Experience? What has that experience produced? Like Jorn said, we need to cut costs. Even if they de idea to bring Gaginni back as a temporary fix, I would have that rate adjusted and then if he did not accept a lower rate then he could stay retired. Something does not seem right with this hiring for a cash-strapped district that just took on a huge debt. Is Gaginni still receiving his pension, also, as somebody mentioned above? I am sure a cheaper alternative, and possibly younger, could have been explored and hired compared to a guy who has produced no real positive results for ASD. Something just does not seem financially right with this hiring.
By Elderton Parent, June 17, 2015 @ 10:47 PM
Just sayin, Logelin is a “she” and she is no longer with ASD.
As far as complaining to the right people, who exactly are the right people that are going to listen and do something about it? The answer is: NO ONE!
For those of you that have been under a rock and keep suggesting that we, the taxpayers, tell these people what we think, allow me to enlighten you.
The Board has had an agenda and they are doing whatever they can/want to do to get what they want and they do not care who they mow over or rob while they do it. That has been CRYSTAL CLEAR for years.
As far as doing more with less, I agree with what you are saying about what is happening to people that are forced to do more with less. When you find the solution to this, I am sure you will be a very rich woman! I do not see anything changing anytime soon. (Yes, I assumed you were a woman considering you said your spouse was a “he.” I apologize if I am wrong.)
There are plenty of experienced administrators that can be hired for less than Gaginni is making. Devivo is another good choice as he has had his hands in the ASD pot before. Having them there is just easy because they know how this school district operates. Why would they want to bring in someone that could possibly want to make changes to their politically evil plan? Just sayin’
By Just sayin, June 18, 2015 @ 2:08 AM
I guess I’ll just put that in my pipe and smoke it.
Some of you commenters are like vultures, just waiting and picking. Can’t you be a little more diplomatic when you complain or disagree? We all agree that the guy is probably getting paid too much. But we should know our facts 100% before we express that.
Obviousely, Dr.Gaggini would bring his experience to the table, like I implied, Patzu. What would you have liked Dr. Gaggini’s experience to have produced? Dr. Gaggini had various positions at ASD, including being the head of the HR department at one time.
I frankly don’t care what experienced person would come to the table, as long as he/she is experienced and paid fairly.
No one is answering most of my questions, either. I think the pay seems high, too. But, no one looked into my salary comparison question.
Yes, you all do have power,Elderton Parent. The media is very powerful. If this story were on the Pittsburgh news channels, it may cause a positive effect. You don’t know until you try.
I’ve gotten positive results calling Wayne Van Dyne, in the past, when Penn DOT said nothing could be done right away about a dangerous road issue. Penn DOT is pretty darn powerful.
So was Hitler, and people beat him.
We are going backward as far as work practices go. It reminds me of why unions started. I don’t agree with what is going on. Overworking and underpaying workers should be illegal. I know so many teachers and managerial workers who stay over their normal hours or continue working at home (with no pay)to keep up with the work that they are forced to do. These people are afraid of getting fired, so they do it. That’s awful, and I’ll never be for it.
I get what you are all saying. Elderton Parent, you don’t have to be condescending to get your point across or to “enlighten.” I am not under a rock. So I am assuming you tried expressing your issues with the Board. You can only verify what you are writing, if you have really tried to have your voice heard.
Well, maybe I was under a rock…… mourning the loss of our son who died in 2012. I guess this writing helps take my mind off of things. But please, let’s be civil and not attack. I like humor better.
By lowfatlowcarbnosugarcheesecake, June 18, 2015 @ 9:49 AM
@Worthingtonman
It’s HER ideas… I’m a she. Pretty sure I made that clear in previous posts.
Also, not attacking… Just a mere observation! You cannot deny the fact that he looks like a famous character! I mean he looks like he would be cool to have around for a Christmas or Halloween party. He also looks like a nice grandfather figure… Geeze, so sensitive!
My apologies to Dr. Gaggini if he took that the wrong way… but I’m not sorry to you worthingtonman.
Watch out Elderton Parent, saying their plan is evil might make Worthingtonman cringe! He’s a little sensitive!! He might be used to the sugar coated lies the school board feeds him. You should sugar coat and say that their plan is full of rainbows and unicorns! That might make him smile…
By India, June 18, 2015 @ 11:37 AM
I just had an epiphany. Understanding how things work in Armstrong County…here is my take on this situation. Since we are slowing refilling our positions with those that were let go previously, what if we are bidding time with Jim Gaggini until one of the others, ( Rick Burns for example ) who are probably still under contract with Freeport School Dist. can fill the position. For all of you that are new to this ….just sit back and watch how these people work. It’s like having tickets to dinner and a show….except if left up to them ( the board)we will no longer be able to afford both. I would like to think that I am wrong, but so far…I have been pretty close with my predictions. I guess time will tell.
By India, June 18, 2015 @ 11:47 AM
let me clarify before everyone jumps at me. I understand that Mr.Devivo left on his own terms . I am speaking of the many admin positions that were cut by the previous board to cut costs. Most ended up at Freeport with Mr. Devivo. Again ,I state that Armstrong County reeks of nepotism. But, no one seems to care.
By Just sayin, June 18, 2015 @ 12:23 PM
I apologize, I gave the wrong information about Dr. Gaggini. Dr. Frank Garritano was the Human Resources Director of ASD for a while in the past.
But, I want to quote Dr. William Kerr about Dr.Gaggini retiring in 2008. Dr.Kerr thought highly of Dr. Gaggini.
“There has been no stronger [sic] advocate for children and youth than Dr. Gaggini. … He had a great rapport with staff and parents and was very creative in expanding educational programs and services for the district…was very involved in Special Education and Response to Intervention programs, as well.”
I’ve also done some public background info on Jorn Jensen. He seems qualified for the assistant superintendent position. I’m not being sarcastic.
He also is one of the only ones brave enough to fight ASD head on before it came a mushroom cloud.
I don’t agree with everything that Jorn does or says, but kudos to him for trying.
By Elderton Parent, June 18, 2015 @ 7:47 PM
Just sayin, I was not trying to be condescending. It is just frustrating when comments are made on here about things that should be done when all of those things have already been done to no avail. Including those that did go to the news media. One of the reporters, don’t know her name, came out and spoke with some folks from Elderton about what was going on. For some reason the story was dropped like a hot potato. Nothing ever came of it. They must have had big news on those days.
The ASD school board, PA Dept of Ed, Senators, State Reps, PA Education Committee, Harrisburg, even to the federal level, etc. They all have been contacted. It is so political that they will not get involved. Actually, it is pretty sad that all of this comes at our kids expense.
As far as Bill Kerr, he will do anything at any expense to try to make himself look good. Not trying to discredit Gaginni’s accomplishments. You know the old saying “you can put lipstick on a pig, but it’s still a pig?” Well, that pretty much sums up Bill Kerr.
I am very sorry for the loss of your son. I could not even begin to imagine what you have been through.
By Joni Kijowski, June 20, 2015 @ 7:34 PM
I am all for free speech, having questions answered. What I don’t understand is the nastiness of the comments.
Dr. Gaggini is my brother-in law, I love and respect him, he has done and continues to do great things with his education, his time and his skills.
I was unaware that we had so many problem solvers right here in our little community. I am requesting that if you have a comment to make, that you identify yourself with your legal name, (not an alias). I am sure that not one of you wouldn’t be proud to associate your real name with your alias. Unless you don’t truly believe what you have written in your comments, or are just being nasty because you can.
By jorn jensen, June 22, 2015 @ 9:27 AM
Thank you for the vote of confidence, Just sayin. I have not sought any jobs, including school board, in the ASD. I did seek county commissioner, but I did not spend enough money, nor did I have the support of ‘the party’.
I am a strong critic of the failings of this school board and those of the past and I believe that a lot of it is in the lack of resume’ of the people holding these unpaid public positions.
Two key purposes of consolidation - cut costs and improve services. I believe that the current board can accomplish the latter, but have no clue on the former.
Consolidations were accomplished, up and down this river valley, all the way back in the late 1960′s. And where was ASD headed? Tried it in 1990/92, somewhere around there, and what happened? 55 years of major mistakes (assuming a start at 1960)and now we’ll spend our way to solving old problems that still exist.
I have the highest respect for Elderton Parent. Consolidation has not treated Elderton well, but facts are facts - as one poster mentioned above, the Elderton area cannot financially support a full-time school. Sorry, that is reality. Another reality is that the Elderton academics were the best in the district and that was one of the schools that had to go. That is sad - improved service at a higher cost.
You must look at the numbers when making decisions. 1974, 15,000 students and 525 teachers in the ASD - about 30:1. These days, 5,500 students and around 475 teachers, + or -, about 11:1, and the student population continues to decrease while our teacher costs continue to skyrocket. You MUST consolidate and send some teachers packing. And, realistic teachers know and admit that, but, fighting for jobs and income, many will argue it. And, for the naysayers, I DO like teachers - teachers are a reason why I am educated.
I agree with India - Armstrong County reeks of nepotism. I do care, and many others do also. How do we fix that? Run for offices and mop up the messes of others? Or, cut and run?
I agree with Joni Kijowski - don’t knock Dr. Gaggini - if the school board offered those dollars to any of the posters on here, they’d probably take the money and run to the bank. The problem is not Dr. Gaggini, but, rather, the school board.
Jorn Jensen, Worthington, PA 724-954-8270 jorn@consultjensen.com
By Elderton Parent, June 22, 2015 @ 10:18 AM
Joni, it is not about Dr. Gaggini personally, it is the position in which he happens to be filling.
By Just sayin, June 22, 2015 @ 11:52 AM
Elderton Parent: You weren’t trying to be condescending, but you were. I know most Elderton parents did everything they could to fight for their school. I saw it in the newspaper medium all the time. That was very admirable and courageous.
I was referring to the closings of Kittanning and Ford City High Schools, not Elderton HS. Thanks for your condolences.
By the way, pigs are smarter than dogs. Look up a National Geographic article from a few years back about the intelligence of pigs. So, eating them is like eating your dog (like they do in some Asian countries). But that’s another issue!
Joni - it isn’t safe to display your real name. I try to be open-minded with my remarks. But in reality, it would be pretty boring reading if we all had the same opinions.
It must be difficult for you to read some of the remarks. Now you understand what the kids must go through when cyber-bullied. If we adults can’t ignore and are bothered with it, imagine how the young and impressionable feel. There’s has been too many suicides over bullying.
It is a free country (kind of), and people can express negative views, but it would be a kinder country if we all would be more diplomatic in expressing those views.
Maybe we’ll reveal ourselves in our obituaries. “Oh, so she was So-and-so!”
I guess these names are like CB Handles in a way. For some, it’s like Halloween and they can dress up to portray the opposite of their public selves. They can be snaggle-toothed growlers on line (that’s me, sometimes, too).
You have to admit, there is a lot of passion in these remarks!
By lowfatlowcarbnosugarcheesecake, June 22, 2015 @ 1:30 PM
Joni,
This place isn’t for the weak of heart. If you can’t take the heat stay out of the kitchen.
Also, if you are really interested in seeing some truly NASTY stuff said about previous school board members, administrators and even former teachers and students of ASD make sure you take a look back in the archives. Oh and make note of how many people actually left their real name after they slandered good people.
PS your request is denied… We can’t all have what we want. If we lived in a perfect world the Riverhawks would not exist and we would have three renovated high schools and low taxes with less administration and more teacher jobs. We also wouldn’t have a teacher union controlled school board.
By Flamingo1, June 23, 2015 @ 7:45 AM
In the realm of the KP there are the bomb throwers who reveal themselves in personal attacks. The criticism of Gaggini is really an anti-intellectual rant that resents anyone earning a decent living because they have an education.
There is lots of name calling as they don’t have an argument. Right Jorn?
By foodforthought, June 23, 2015 @ 8:12 PM
Maybe this is what is in the works, gaggini is temporary until robb is off of the board long enough to be the assistant who will then be hired and bring burns back with him. Then the three amigos will be together again. The only one missing is kerr who covered their buts while he was here. Devivo can now handle that (although with the new mandatory reporting of educator misgivings the things that occurred then would have to be reported to the state oif the happened now). That would result in firing/investigation for things that the three amigos were involved in previously. Hopefully the new reporting will keep them on the up and up.
What should happen,to save costs is that there is no need for gaggini currently. Devivo is familiar enough with the district to handle things. Then if an assistant superintendent is really necessary ( debatable) soloski should step up, cominos (with the created position) should step into soloski’s curriculum position and his position should be eliminated.
By jorn jensen, June 23, 2015 @ 9:16 PM
Why are you asking me, Flamingo? Ask a liberal.
By jorn jensen, June 23, 2015 @ 9:32 PM
India points out nepotism in Armstrong County and lowfatlowcarbnosugarcheesecake mentions a teachers’ union-controlled school board - an interesting challenge for a sharp, investigative reporter to connect all of those dots and report it to the public. Perhaps India is correct - the public may not care. Or maybe they do care.
By Just sayin, June 24, 2015 @ 1:40 AM
jorn, the basic difference between a liberal and a conservative (as I learned in a college history class) is one is for change and one isn’t. I think if Jesus were back on Earth, he’d lean toward being a liberal and a feminist, don’t you think? Consider all the parables and His own actions toward sinners, etc.
But, I’m getting sidetracked because you mentioned the liberal thing. I don’t dislike all conservative ideologies. Bend a little and you won’t break in the wind.
By Just sayin, June 24, 2015 @ 1:58 AM
The average college professor makes more than what Dr. Gaggini will make. But the average assistant superintendent of a school district is $67,988. I quickly looked this up, so it may not be valid. But, basically that is what most are complaining about - the high salary, not the character and qualifications of Dr. Gaggini.
By steve, June 24, 2015 @ 7:22 AM
Justsayin, You’re going to get Jorn’s underpants in a twist with a comment like that. haha! There is a lot of truth to it though.
Go figure that Jorn couldn’t help himself from spouting off about liberal this, liberal that. He’s like a broken record!
By jorn jensen, June 24, 2015 @ 7:31 AM
Just sayin, I guess we should take the liberal/conservative topic to another thread, but it is not as simple as you state. Colleges/universities are typical liberal-run/liberal-taught institutions - they’d tell you that liberals are for change and conservatives not. Reality is that liberals are idealistic and conservatives are realistic. Liberals want you to give up your rights to the government in exchange for security. Conservatives want less government interference in their lives, stand for personal responsibility, free enterprise and capitalism. One example - capitalism IS pro-change - when you artificially mess with economics (government getting involved and manipulating) and take $7.25 to $15, capitalism will invest in touch screens and BurgerBots to eliminate employees from fast food places. Fewer people employed, but making $15 in a non-career-oriented job and more on unemployment. Guns - “Give up your guns and we’ll protect you!” Okay, who’s going to get the guns off the criminals and murderers? Are we all supposed to hang around gun-free zone signs for safety?
Liberalism is more of a disease than anything else.
By steve, June 24, 2015 @ 9:09 AM
Who would have guessed. He went from liberal this to liberal that straight to burger bots again. Justsayin, there isn’t any use trying to get through to Jorn in that way. The broken record just keeps going round and round with the same old stuff he’s spoonfed from Fox News and Facebook.
Notice how he didn’t comment once about your Jesus question. I think his lack of response provided you with your answer.
By jorn jensen, June 24, 2015 @ 9:26 AM
Just sayin, just follow some of steve’s (& Flamingo, Bluto, Mad, and some others - all liberals that have to use a pseudonym) comments on here and you’ll understand that liberalism is a disease. Hopefully, a cure can be found in our lifetime.
By jd718, June 24, 2015 @ 9:54 AM
@ Jensen, When speaking of diseases be sure to include yourself, anything else just wouldn’t be correct…….
By Just sayin, June 24, 2015 @ 2:48 PM
jorn- I hope I didn’t give you a psychological wedgie.
More on your comments later.
To my knowledge, most college professors encourage independent thinking. They want their students to learn all aspects of government and societies and then make up their own minds. Mine were open-minded, if that’s part of what you mean by liberalism.
If you are a history buff, you also should know that Abe Lincoln was a Republican. Back then, the Republicans were more like today’s Democrats, and the Democrats were more like today’s Republicans. Somehow the values were switched through the years.
I say anyone who is at the extreme left or extreme right is a little unbalanced.
“Give me your tired, your poor…”
By mad-2010, June 24, 2015 @ 10:40 PM
Just Stop JJ.. You are getting way past Old with that weak junk that you talk.. LOL
By jorn jensen, June 24, 2015 @ 11:15 PM
Oh sorry, I forgot to list JohnDeere718 in the list of notable liberals.
No wedgie, Just sayin - just hit ‘em with facts and they go away.
By steve, June 25, 2015 @ 7:24 AM
Justsayin- Think back to last month when Jorn was saying he could work with liberals/ democrats if he was elected. You can tell by his most recent comments that this was a lie. The voters of the county did a fantastic job keeping someone like him out of office.
By mad-2010, June 25, 2015 @ 8:09 AM
Jensen speaks, “Just sayin, just follow some of steve’s (& Flamingo, Bluto, Mad, and some others – all liberals that have to use a pseudonym) comments on here and you’ll understand that liberalism is a disease.”
Tis a tale told by a zealot,full of sound and fury and signifying nothing!! Same Old Tired Jensen!!
By jerry6, June 25, 2015 @ 9:09 AM
Like I said, after Jorn lost his bid for commissioner, he would be back on here running down liberals. It is a good thing he lost because he could never be partial and work for and with liberals. If he didn’t know that someone is a liberal, he wouldn’t know what political party they were with. I know he says he could by what they say but he is full of himself.
By sickofpayingforit, June 25, 2015 @ 10:32 AM
Plenty of postings further bolstering my position that the volunteer school board business model doesn’t work. If it was a for profit endeavor, which I believe it should be, the governing bodies would know from day one that it is never personal, it is BUSINESS!. We are paying a retiree 6 figures. It is a public position. The citizens have a RIGHT to challenge this. Nobody cares about qualifications to be totally honest. They care about their money.
I still would like an answer. Why is his pay considered a “day rate”?????
By Just sayin, June 25, 2015 @ 11:51 AM
An analogy: Conservatives are to Scrooge as Liberals are to Bob Cratchit. Both are capitalists.
By Just sayin, June 25, 2015 @ 12:41 PM
jorn —Conservatives are realistic? Most don’t believe in the theory of evolution. I believe in God AND the theory of evolution (and Pope Frances is teetering on this, too). Why can’t God have created the first Homo sapien from the evolving ape? I thought of this when I was in 7th grade — my independent thinking wasn’t and isn’t from a college, then or now.
Also, not all liberals are against guns (you’re referring to radicals). They are against some of the people who USE guns. They are against current gun control laws.
We’d be crazy to take guns away with all the criminals out there who already have them to use against themselves and innocent people.
And for all you paranoid people out there, keep the guns in case the government “takes over.”
I like that some towns are trading training for guns, especially in the inner cities.
I’ve worked with children who have severe behavior/mental health issues and some of their parents let them around guns or let them go hunting. “Oh, let me reward you …here’s a gun after you punched your baby sister in the mouth.” One of the young teens I worked with shot himself and died after finding a gun in his family’s home. Laws have to change. It is unrealistic that they don’t have to change.
Most Liberals and Democrats also stand for PERSONAL responsibility for themselves AND others who are TRULY in need. WWJD? That’s what Jesus would do. Jesus didn’t only think about himself. A true Christian, Buddhist, or Native American will treat others (animals/land, too) as they treat themselves, sometimes better than themselves. It’s also fine to be rich, even if it’s inherited. ( We can correlate this in some way to Dr. Gaggini’s wages since I’m getting off track purposely.) Sometimes it’s just being at the right place at the right time and has nothing to do with working super hard. But, happiness cannot be bought by material things (you’ll get bored and always want more). It is GIVING and connecting with our fellow man (animals/land, too) that truly provides happiness.
By Just sayin, June 25, 2015 @ 12:58 PM
Don’t worry jorn, if the government raises the minimum wage to $15, the businesses will all raise their prices (not necessarily get rid of humans), and the minimum wage earners will be back in the same hole that they are in now. There will be no difference in the long run, so what’s the point of raising it?
The solution— corporations, etc., should stop being so GREEDY and LOWER their prices for the common worker to be able to pay their bills and to eat (let alone meds and some recreation).
And even though I’m a Democrat, I was against Bill Clinton for passing NAFTA laws —permitting corporations to move their businesses to other countries. Shame on the businesses for listening — workers out of work here, cheap labor and horrendous working conditions elsewhere! Greed was the need. That’s all part of capitalism. God, bless us, everyone!
By Just sayin, June 25, 2015 @ 1:00 PM
And God, bless Dr. Gaggini. Maybe he will donate some of his money to charity.
By Just sayin, June 25, 2015 @ 1:02 PM
I guess Jesus died of Liberalism (to unselfishly save our souls from eternal damnation).
By mad-2010, June 25, 2015 @ 1:34 PM
Just sayin, Get old Jensen to explain to you how more and more Americans are becoming subjects in the USA! Jensen tried to pass that Load off on the KP at one time also! Same Old Tired Junk with Jensen.. LOL
By blutoblutarsky, June 25, 2015 @ 1:53 PM
Either jorn is very envious of liberals or he has some kind of mental illness or unhealthy obsession with that particular group of people.
Every other thought that crosses his mind or sentence out of his mouth involves liberals.
By jd718, June 25, 2015 @ 4:33 PM
When Nurses talk Washington listens.
ACA is here to Stay. Right Jensen!
By mad-2010, June 26, 2015 @ 7:37 AM
Bluto.. Jensen was born a Socialist and it appears because of this Fact that he has to overstate his Republican views. Sad isn’t it!
By jd718, June 26, 2015 @ 7:56 AM
@ Jensen, “just hit ‘em with facts and they go away.” Well Jensen over the past year you have been hit with a ton of facts. Why are you still here on the KP flapping them gums? Maybe you should follow your own message and go away.
By jorn jensen, June 26, 2015 @ 8:46 AM
Perhaps, Just sayin, you’re a democrat with sense.
A liberal democrat told me, regarding the ‘raising the minimum wage thing’, that it will boost the economy because those at $7.25 live from paycheck to paycheck and when they get $15, they’ll continue to spend it all, living from paycheck to paycheck, but they’ll put more money into the economy - and that is good for the economy. Liberal logic 101. Didn’t really help those that it was ‘intended’ to help. So, that person basically stated the same thing that you did - “and the minimum wage earners will be back in the same hole that they are in now. There will be no difference in the long run, so what’s the point of raising it?” Perhaps the government folks think that the same number of people will remain employed and therefore, the government can collect more income taxes.
Nice to hear from the liberals - swat the nest and they come out all a-buzz. Works every time.
By Just sayin, June 26, 2015 @ 9:38 AM
I’m not attacking jorn. I was commenting on his comments. He’s allowed to have an opinion, God bless his soul. You don’t want to act like flies.
All of the great leaders who have changed the world went about it in peaceful ways …Martin Luther King, Gandhi, Jesus…
jorn, some conservatives voted to keep “ObamaCare.” God bless them for caring and bending.
By Rat_Smeller, June 26, 2015 @ 12:29 PM
Hey Just Sayin - You were sucking up to Jensen on another thread…. What gives on this one? Not sticking up for Jensen… Just not a fan of people that play both sides of the fence.
By mad-2010, June 26, 2015 @ 3:43 PM
SCOTUS says: Equality for all Americans. It’s a Great Day to be an American…..
By mad-2010, June 26, 2015 @ 10:24 PM
Jensen said: “Conservatives want less government interference in their lives, stand for personal responsibility, free enterprise and capitalism. One example – capitalism IS pro-change – when you artificially mess with economics (government getting involved and manipulating).”
The break up of AT&T by Reagan in the 1980s gave birth to the “baby bells”. Oh wait, Reagan was a Republican, oh well, so much for your(government getting involved and manipulating) comment Jensen. LOL
By mad-2010, June 26, 2015 @ 10:48 PM
Hey JJ…. “just hit ‘em with facts and they go away.” I forgot just how much fun you can be, JJ! LOL
By mad-2010, June 28, 2015 @ 5:04 AM
Where are the backups lukie, dukie & Waldo? You need good backups for a Pimp…. Bagdel Antal!!
By Patzu, June 28, 2015 @ 8:32 AM
Bottom line is that this payment is waaaaay too much for this district.
The directors should be ashamed.
like was stated three other times on this thread, is he also getting his pension?
By jd718, June 28, 2015 @ 9:09 AM
Jensen fills his coffee pot
full of good clean drinking water because some liberal fought for
minimum water quality standards.
By jd718, June 28, 2015 @ 9:15 AM
There is no such thing as Obamacare it’s ACA. Thanks…
By jorn jensen, June 28, 2015 @ 9:51 AM
Well, this story is about Dr. Gaggini returning as acting assistant superintendent, and now we’re down to Obamacare.
Only a liberal would see sense in creating a law to force you to buy a product, and, if you can’t, or won’t, then you are fined. On the ‘can’t’ side, perhaps if a person can’t afford it, maybe they can’t afford the fine, either. That is surely a recipe for success.
Just sayin, if you’re going to be a liberal, don’t be a closet liberal - be a proud liberal like JD718, Mad, bluto, and the likes of those folks (sorry if I forgot any of you liberals).
By mad-2010, June 28, 2015 @ 3:25 PM
Hey Jensen… “Well, this story is about Dr. Gaggini returning as acting assistant superintendent, and now we’re down to Obamacare.”
Comments would have stayed about Gaggini had you not called out the so-called Liberals by name. Stop Pimping and stick to the story!
By jerry6, June 28, 2015 @ 4:56 PM
I know two republicans who do not like or support Obama but they are on the Affortable Care Act and they love the insurance coverage they are getting.
Jorn it is so sad that you constantly have to run liberals down about everything. It is people like you who keep things in an uproar. You will not bend at all and I am very happy you lost the election. You didn’t deserve to win.
By jorn jensen, June 28, 2015 @ 8:34 PM
I am glad for you, that you are happy that I didn’t win in the primary, jerry6. So, how did your campaign go? Remember, it is not over until the general election is over in November.
By Flamingo1, June 29, 2015 @ 7:15 AM
JJ and the ACA
For your information Jorn, the idea of an insurance mandate came from he conservative Heritage Foundation and was promoted in the 90′s by conservative senators such as Charles Grassley and John McCain. It became law in Massachusetts when promoted by conservative Governor Mitt Romney.
We also mandate car insurance as uninsured drivers hurt society if they crash. It is called financial responsibility.
So your comment, “…only a liberal.” is fact challenged.
By jd718, June 29, 2015 @ 7:22 AM
@ Jensen, “and now we’re down to Obamacare.”
No, No, Jensen Affordable Care Act is bigger and more important than you or this Gaggini story.
You only think you are Slick!
By steve, June 29, 2015 @ 7:54 AM
So after saying “he likes to swat the nest”, “liberalism is a disease”, bringing up burgetbots for the hundredth time and of course.. guns. Jensen is suddenly complaining that the conversation is no longer on topic??
Jerry- Remember, Jensen had no interest in serving the people. He only wanted to serve himself on the taxpayers dime.
By Just sayin, June 29, 2015 @ 9:15 AM
Rat_Smeller: (By the way, I save mice.)
I’m not playing both sides of the fence. I don’t hate people. I bend. I’m open-minded. I speak what I feel. I speak MY truth and my perceptions. I am not in a mold. And people shouldn’t treat others like they are in a mold. Did I ever contradict myself?
Reread my comment on June 26, 9:38 a.m.
We need to work together here. If we keep spitting on each other enough, we’ll drown.
I guess I fell for your cheese in the rat trap.
By Just sayin, June 29, 2015 @ 9:34 AM
Rat_Smeller: It’s called diplomacy.
By Just sayin, June 29, 2015 @ 10:01 AM
jorn: I’ve been to “Oodles of Noodles City” before in my travels through life.
The greedy Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Independents, or whoever, need to lower prices so people can fulfill their basic needs, at the very least.
So if the poor “spend up,” it may very well mean that they are buying a soup bone with fresh vegies instead of buying Oodles of Noodles. Or they can use Oodles of Noodles as a side dish, instead of using O of N as their main meal.
No one can survive in the world without service workers/blue collar workers. Everyone’s job is important. Someone made the nail you see in the floor or the knobs on your stove.
By Marc, June 29, 2015 @ 3:35 PM
Is this Jensen guy for real??? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. No wonder you lost in the primary dummy! Look at how you treat people!
By Just sayin, June 29, 2015 @ 6:26 PM
jd718 : It used to bother me to call the Affordable Care Act “Obamacare,” but President Obama calls it that, too! So now I don’t care. If he doesn’t care, I’ll place credit where credit is due. It is not a negative thing if you think positive about it. I don’t agree with EVERYTHING I know about it. It needs tweaked. I’ve never read the few thousand pages it entails, yet.
Rat_Smeller: Just because someone tries to be kind and fair to all, doesn’t mean they are playing 2 sides of the fence. If I felt strongly about something, then pretended to be for the other side — that would be 2-faced. I’ll stick up for anyone if I agree with him/her.
I’ve almost gotten beat up quite a few times in my life for standing up for people’s rights.
I do think kindness is the way. I was sincere when I complimented jorn. That doesn’t mean I agree with most of his thoughts. Everything doesn’t have to be black or white.
I think we’ve all squeezed the living daylight out of this thread!!
By Just sayin, June 29, 2015 @ 6:31 PM
I’m more of a Meat Head/Gloria/Edith than an Archie Bunker, but Archie had his tender moments, too. He also evolved into a better person.
By jd718, June 30, 2015 @ 6:28 AM
@ just sayin, Even Presidents have Egos, I’ll stick with calling it The Affordable Care Act. However I understand what you said..
By blutoblutarsky, June 30, 2015 @ 11:37 AM
Geez, I’m flattered that after only commenting once in three weeks you still find ways to mention me in yours, jorn.
By Just sayin, June 30, 2015 @ 12:04 PM
jorn, jorn, jorn,
“jorn in trouble.”
If you knew me, you would know I’m no closet- case liberal.
I saw a survival show last night, and a retired NYC police chief said, “If you can’t get through to people, you ignore them.” You are truly showing your ignorance when you only see in black or white.
I don’t believe in the “cookie theory,” to get people to do what you want them to do. I believe in being sincere and respectful.
I gave you a compliment out of sincerity. There are liberals who fall toward the middle of the spectrum, you know.
By the way, I’m not against socialism. I don’t know if I’d like it, though. Socialism doesn’t come close to communism (like some act like it does).
I know people from Norway who have paid cash to get better health care in America, since many of the socialist doctors and services weren’t topnotch. These people are some of the most open-minded people I know.
By Just sayin, June 30, 2015 @ 12:10 PM
Picture this:
I’m speaking dolphin squeaks…Maybe I’ll change my name to Flipper.
By Just sayin, July 1, 2015 @ 9:43 AM
I mentioned “ObamaCare” because it had to do with conservatives BENDING when some agreed to keep the Act.
By Just sayin, July 1, 2015 @ 9:46 AM
I’m guessing Dr. Gaginni is still getting his retirement pay on top of the daily rate. Hopefully, someone will get hired to take his place. Jorn, are you applying??
By jorn jensen, July 1, 2015 @ 10:05 PM
No, Just sayin, not applying for that yob. I’d bring back paddling and expect parents to paddle their kids when they got home from a paddling at school. The politically-correct would have me in jail in no time. My expertise is in training people to become heat treaters - people out of high school and ready to REALLY work and sweat. No, not interested in anything with school district management. Dr. Gaggini has good credentials in that arena - take the money and run to the bank.
The Scandinavians are among the most liberal of all - open borders and all of that stuff. The old Swedes wondered, “Wat da hell vent wrong?” when the Islamists burned Stockholm a year or so ago. Well, dah? There is a resurgence of conservatism in Denmark - they’re starting to understand some of the financial failures of their liberalism. Greece is currently struggling with that also. And we want to model after Europe? Really?
By sickofpayingforit, July 2, 2015 @ 9:19 AM
I think the line of thinking is absurd on some fronts. I have read about how much Gagini has done for this district. How about how much this district has done for him!!!! Six figure salaries are not very common in Armstrong County. How about that? If anyone goes the “public servant” route, I will probably vomit in my mouth. It is a very high paying job that mostly everyone would take in a minute for that obscene salary. Nothing more.
First WE paid for a full pension and benefits for him, now WE are paying him 6 figures and nobody can say if he is still receiving the full pension and benefits that WE are paying for. I don’t know the guy from Adam, and this isn’t personal. It is MY money and I don’t want to spend it on a retiree, especially if he is still receiving full pension benefits.
CAN ANYONE PLEASE EXPLAIN THE DAY RATE SITUATION???
By Just sayin, July 2, 2015 @ 10:27 AM
Oh, vell.
By jorn jensen, July 2, 2015 @ 9:38 PM
Just sayin, you’re doing very well in your Scandihoovian language class! Soon, we’ll go to Ollie and Sven yokes.
sickofpayingforit - I agree with you on your discussion. Those of us posting on here are expressing our opinions. I, too, would like to hear, publicly, from the school board, regarding this day rate situation, pension and all of that good stuff. They need to go public on this and lay the cards on the table.
The question might be asked at a school board meeting, but there are rules - your topic must pertain to an agenda item and your are limited to 5 minutes. So, if the assistant superintendent’s day rate is not on the agenda, even with your 5 minutes, you are out of luck. There may be a way to get the question onto the agenda, but I am not familiar with that process.