Thanks for posting so we get a better idea of what happened. Flanagan was clearly warned by administrators about his behavior. By all accounts he was an outstanding teacher of history but teachers also can not be insubordinate. What annoys me is that he is being allowed to retire at the end of the school year so taxpayers will now pay his salary AND pay for a substitute teacher as well. There is something wrong with that picture.
not just insubordinate - but STUPID! What was he thinking? Sounds as if he has a severe problem/addiction/perversion. Why was he even allowed to stay with the school after the March findings?
a Problem/addiction/perversion? What the heck is wrong with you people. In the days we live in stupid little girls make up lies for attention and pitty. When I was in NMHS Mr. Flan was the exact same way. He let me sit in his classes when I had a different teacher and him allowing me to do that is the only reason I passed history and was able to graduate. Also, I went through years of teachers both male and female rubbing my back or trying to calm me down when upset. Mr. Flan was a friend to the students and because parents are over protective and children are itching for attention he's been made into a pervert. Ten years ago a teacher helping a student made him a better teacher, and now it ruins careers. This makes me sick.
For those of you who have not had the honor of knowing Steve Flanagan I am posting a link for you to see why so many are heartbroken over this. I ask you to please try and focus on his words. This was his commencement address to the class of 1997.
I have had the privilege of knowing Steve Flanagan for over 20 years. He is without a doubt one of the most caring teachers I have ever known. What has happened I believe is a case of how our society has changed. Years ago a teacher would have been commended for helping a student in need and comforting a distraught student. Now it can is viewed as inappropriate.
I realize the administration has laws and policy that must be followed. I am sure it was very difficult for all parties involved to have this final outcome.
It is unfortunate that our teachers and our administration in today's society have been put in this position.
None of us know what issues that Steve had to face with this student and maybe he felt that it was more important to help a student then to follow the policy.Was the student suicidal who knows? Please do not just forget the 26 years that he gave to the students of our system as a totally devoted teacher.
I leave you with these thoughts, one student who left him after a heated argument and complained against the thousand students who have come to his defense. One parent who complained against the thousand who have commended him including his fellow colleagues.
How many teachers have had issues with parents over the years. How many parents have complained about a teacher over their students career. Its human nature that not everyone will work well together.
I for one stand by my belief that he is not only and outstanding teacher but also a wonderful caring human being. I feel heartbroken not only for Steve and our administration that we have come to this point in our society but for all teachers and future teachers.
Times have changed and not for the better.No one has gained from this the Town of New Milford lost a wonderful teacher. Our administration had to deal with losing someone as they said "who had a stellar career".Who they felt "there was no indication his actions were motivated by sexual desire or interest".
Teachers are faced with excruciating desicions in our times now. Schools can be filled with violence.Years ago no one would have believed what happened in Colombine or Virginia Tech could take place.Bulling has caused how many suicides in school systems. So, how do they decide which student needs their support if that student only feels safe speaking to them. Does the teacher just follow the rules and pray for the best outcome?
I hope all parties can heal from this terrible situation and that before others find fault they really try to "walk in their shoes".
You have proven my point and I could not thank you more. Everyone takes something different away from a situation. You only saw the words "behave yourselves out there". I saw be that person who offers to help. Each of you have the power within your grasp to be a great service and help to others. "Exercise the power of generosity. Let your life be one of kindness which becomes a habit and instinct so that you find yourself helping someone in need without stopping to think of reasons of why you shouldn't". And never estimate the healing power of helping a person in their time of distress.What may seem a simple gesture (rubbing a students back) you might have the power to help someone through an anxious moment to overcome fear, cope with distress. So, as you see very different view points on this subject matter.Thank you for helping to clarify what I was trying to point out.
Mr. Flanagan always put his students interest ahead of his fellow teachers and administration. He confronted another teacher (department head I must add) about the grade I received because he felt that I was treated unfairly. What he did then saved my admissions to college. He helped secure my future by confronting a fellow teacher and boss. I'm not surprised that he would give some financial support to a student in need. That is just the type of teacher and human being he was and is. We are too caught up in this political correctness BS.
Pat wrote: "Everyone takes something different away from a situation."
Yup...I don't find affection:
defined as fond attachment, devotion, or love...
to be an appropriate feeling to have between a student and a teacher....
That address rings a lot of warning bells with this parent and grandparent...as does the inappropriate touching and stalking. He should have been fired long ago and shame on you for trying to whitewash this teacher and his unprofessional behavior. They generally target students with "self-esteem" issues.
It is with great sadness that I read some of these posts here today!!!! Mr Flan is an outstanding teacher and human being!!!! He is the type of teacher all educators should take lessons from!!!! He made such a difference in my life and so many other students lives! He has compassion for his students where other teachers just have coldness and emptiness. This story has destroyed my faith that teachers are allowed to do good things for their students and sadly alot of teachers are going to think twice before doing any good for them again!!! As a parent of a child with special needs , I look toward the teachers to give my son love and compassion, support and hugs when I am not there to do so. Because of this now what!!!!!??????? This is disguting and sad!!!
Thank you Mr. Lewin for posting these documents. I had not until this point had the chance to read them all and in their entirety.
Mr. Flanagan was one of the best teachers I had in my entire matriculating life. (Including 2 college degrees.) I was a student who received hugs and pats on the back from Mr. Flanagan, as are many more students (both male and female) who are healthy, happy, successful contributors to society and whom I bet would say that Mr. Flan had something to do with that.
He was the kind of Human Being (not just a teacher, and certainly not just a person,) that people in those tough high school years felt they could talk to. We felt he would understand. We knew he could emphasize. And he helped me through some of the toughest times of my life...which I will not go into detail here about (as Mr. Flanagan is probably one of the few people on this planet I trusted enough to talk to about them.)
I don't know what has happened to humanity (maybe it's this newly litigious society) where someone giving a needy person a hug is deemed inappropriate. I am as shocked as it seems Mr. Flanagan was, according to some of these documents, at the actions of the school board and NMHS employees.
You should take a look at the facebook page "Save Mr. Flanagan" as well as the Event on facebook detailing the Candle Lighting Ceremony that we are going to hold to commemorate one of the best teachers NMHS has ever seen. I don't think that you'll see ONE negative comment by ANYONE who has ever known or been taught by Mr. Flanagan. The people who are tainting his name are (very angry and argumentative, I might add) all people who have never even met the man. Well, one thing I can tell you p/o'd people is that Mr. Flanagan would have told you "not to believe the bullies. They haven't even taken the time to get to know you before passing judgment."
Yes, he chose not to comply to some of the school's regulations. I personally would like to believe he did that because they are just plain STUPID. People are worried more about getting sued than they are about the mental health and well-being of students. It is so, so very sad and pathetic.
Those of you who think so poorly of Mr. Flanagan because he chose to help someone instead of following the generic, impersonal regulations, should go to the Candle Lighting Ceremony and see just how many people will be standing out in the cold wishing that one of the best people we have ever known could at least have been shown the respect that he deserved. He should be commended, not reprimanded. Awarded, not left to retire. And his good name should be cleared. THAT I know for sure.
Emily K. Strelis, NMHS class of '97 University of New Hampshire, class of '01.
First - Jay, thank you for publishing. It does shed some light to the ludicrous degree at which some of these "Administrators" go to try to ruin someone that does not prescribe to their doctrine in lock step.
Second - If all teachers followed the doctrine that is dished out, the education system would be in serious trouble; more so than it is now. The way that the New Milford Administration continues to react to teachers such as Mr. Flanagan and others (there are plenty of them but they are too scared to raise their voice) just establishes a ruinous path for future students where the words "empathy", "inspiration", and "motivated" become demerits for teachers if they display any of these qualities. Just push the kids through each grade, no care as to the quality of education; it borders on orwellian.
Third - Mr. Flanagan did not just have students remember dates in a book; he made you think. I can list the number of teachers I had in High School that actually encouraged you to think and prepared you for what college may be. He actually took the time to challenge people to think outside of the normal and rote ways of learning and to provoke spontaneous thought which is sorely missing in most of our education systems. It is a statement about society that we have progressed to where we are and how people such as Mr. Flanagan are treated. It is also very revealing how the Administration has gone to great lengths to conceal the accuser. These actions are sending a bad message to our teachers. We constantly worry about the quality of people going into and remaining in teaching; the actions of the administration is a self fulfilling prophecy.
Come on people. Yes he was a great teacher. Yes he's compassionate. He's also insubordinate! Who takes 50 photos of someone after he's been told not to photograph that someone by the parents and his principal. This is a serious problem. He should have been fired. He had the warnings and taxpayers should not be paying him till June.
No post from God regarding the fist fight in town hall. No Only character assault against good teachers. The highly respected Mr. J and the fool Joe G had a fist fight today in town hall. This idiot (Joe G) should been dumped years ago. Lives in New Fairfield so he can Vote for the Queen. Why is he still around and fighting with the Finance Chief. "The town can be and has often been in the course of history the main source of mischief and disaster" A pattern of Mischief continue's underfoot last night. The other fool is trying to survive along with the threatened!!RS really thinks he's Mayor next time. Soft as a grape is Abe. "There are but very few men clever enough to know all the mischief they do" The same game the Republicans play nationally is being played out by the greedy Republicans in New Milford right now. "Vanity working on a weak head, produces every sort of mischief"
Yeah what's the deal with the ray jankowski and joe Galante fist fight? I heard it on the scanner then drove by and saw Galante being led out by the cops. Jay since you are always in the mayors office did you happen to be there so you can tell us why these old dogies were fighting? Also i assume they got suspended right?
Just to clarify my posts are only regarding Steve Flanagan. I know NOTHING about what the other "Pat" is writing. I will be more careful to post my full name. I really dislike all the anonymous posts. I feel if you believe in something you should stand up and be counted. So, Jay how about making posts available to only those who are willing to write their names on their posts. Oh and I hope Ray is alright he is a nice guy. Katrina its times like this I wished I drank! I cant believe no one picked up on there was NO POLICE INVOLVEMENT that should tell folks something. It was a POLICY issue that was not adhered too.Again, times have changed and not for the better. I am very proud of the almost two thousand students who have come to their former teachers defense and I think that speaks volumes about the man.
jay, can you also foi mr. flanagan's personnel folder for ALL documents and post the many positive letters and memos so those of us who do not know him can get the full picture.
and pat E, if everyone who posted here had to disclose their name, you would be the only poster! that would be boring, however i have much respect for you for having the courage to put your name on your posts.
i would suggest that all of you who love mr flan should start a massive letter writing campaign to the danbury news times so that those who do not read this site will know how beloved he is. the article in the dnt today is not pretty.
Also what they are not telling you is that the CEA and NMEA say they cannot comment publicly on discipline issues, but evidently the admin. is able to. Teachers are not allowed to speak to the media about anything. Someone released the documents. Also, read the last para. of the Sept. letter...it says the next step is termination. So, who believes it was solely his decision to resign? It appears the admin. is mostly concerned about their image right now and not his. Anyone want to comment on what they think numerous means? If it is the same girl and the same mother and one teacher reporting anonymously, is that numerous?
There are those that want to vilify Mr. Flanagan, attempt to ruin his reputation, and resorting to the same sort of tactics as the Administration (hiding behind procedural secrecy as a matter of convenience). I am sure that Ms. Paddyfoot appreciates you doing her social media campaign. Interesting that we can make these documents public but the Adminstration is holding firm to protecting their person that fulfilled thier ability to push another talented educator out out the New Milford School System.
Their agenda is more important to the quality of the education for the students.
9:28 said "Someone released the documents" as if it was something secret. Not true. The state statutes make ALL disciplinary files public. Who is the town's FOI King? L-E-W-I-N.
Jason you make some good points but they are getting lost in the facts. The case wasn't made by and didn't result solely from one whistle-blower. Yes, I'd like to know who this dweeb was, too. Probably someone new who is jealous of Flan and maybe of the girls, too. Maybe she didn't get any attention growing up that she thought she deserved. That would be a shame.
Anyone can see what students are saying about Mr. Flanagan here on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/261739447218457/
As well as here on Facebook as well: http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/289126254473163/
Obviously you have to sign in.
I find it pathetic that "anonymous" from 10:51 a.m. has the audacity to say that "Ex-students braying like idiots about their divine right to emotional support is evidence of educational malpractice." If you are trying to point out that students need to learn that life is hard and that bureaucracy sucks, I think that life is what should teach us that. Not the firing of a great teacher thanks to another "anonymous" like you. You have obviously yourself learned all about it. And maybe you wouldn't be so jaded and hateful if you had a teacher like Mr. F.
Regarding the NM Comptroller - ad in today's help wanted section for new comptroller. Guess we know what happened. They certainly didn't waste any time.
I don't wish to add to this discussion except for two facts: First, the teacher who filed the last complaint was male; and two, the meetings that Steve Flanagan missed while meeting with the student are basically gimmicks designed to impress NEASC, which will be evaluating the high school I believe later this year.
That is the most pathetic job opening I have ever seen. How the he'll does the mayor and her republican cronies expect to attract a good employee? They put more thought into their parties at Tivolis than that job posting. These idiots ran on economic development but they sure don't seem to truly care about it. How pathetic.
No one knows what really happened. The documents are just that, documents. They do not speak or breathe. I will stand behind Flan, now and forever. Flan gave me the confidence that I needed to survive my Senior year. I am forever grateful for that. And even though I have not had him as a teacher since high school, Flan always asks my Mom how I am, by name, when they see each other at his daughter's sporting events. So here I am braying away and proud to be doing so for a fantastic teacher!
The Future of America is in our Children. The indirect result of this situation is teaching OUR future generations NOT to listen and be caring toward our peers, colleagues, superiors and our fellow man but rather to point the finger at others so that they themselves (the ones pointing the finger) look better than the others.
Some of us learned that pointing fingers is bad in Kindergarden. Some of us learned the Golden Rule as well. What is unfortunate is that there are some Adults who have forgotton what their teachers taught them in Kindergarden.
I believe that the Golden Rule should be the curriculm for all Kindergarden students and what is ironic, if the NM Administration were to take Kindergarden again, they would fail because there is not proper evidence that these Adults have learned this basic rule of Life!
Alas, he left out the critical thinking necessary to balance Gen X, Y and Z's narcissism, overwrought emotionalism, consumerism and sense of entitlement.
to Katrinasilert And you know for certain who this other Pat is? Or if the person posting this comment is using their real name? I see you are so brave you say nasty comments about people but won't post your name. If you won't put your name to your post then we don't care what you have to say.
This guy was a VERY sick man and has been doing this creepy old guy pedophile Mentor gig for decades.
The girls used to take FULL advanatge of him and he ate it up. He ignored all the guys and focused on the girls in a very vulnerable time of their lives. I always knew this guy was a creep and reading the trancripts is VERY disturbing.
Tom if you knew this was governed by State Statute how would we do this:
Civic leader Tom Pilla wants to reward the town's volunteer firefighters and emergency ambulance crews by increasing the tax abatement credit they are eligible to receive annually.
At the Town Council meeting Monday night, Pilla said the town began allowing the abatements in the 1990s, but he believes the amount needs to be increased. He offered to serve on a committee to consider how this might be done.
He said he believes the volunteers deserve additional compensation as thanks for their contributions.
to Katrinasilert And you know for certain who this other Pat is? Or if the person posting this comment is using their real name? I see you are so brave you say nasty comments about people but won't post your name. If you won't put your name to your post then we don't care what you have to say.
January 12, 2012 4:14 PM
I post my entire name in all of my comments. If you took the time to read them in their entirety you would see that.
Thanks for proving my point, though. People who are saying awful things about this wonderful teacher are not doing their homework. (Pun definitely intended.)
In case anyone would like to read up a little bit more about what's going on with the Vigil and what some people have been writing in letters to the editor at The Spectrum, here are a few more links:
To Jay: We're waiting to see the documents relating to complaints in Mr. Shugrue's file to get a really complete picture of what was actually involved in the current witch hunt against Mr. Flanagan.
It seems that some students and others are correct, to a point .Not haveing any experence at NMHS, but by reading the four letters posted, it should tell those who Know Mr flanagan, that some things in his behavior have changed, To continue to disregard Warnings, and to risk his career, shows "some thing wrong here," as dr Lee would say. The touching and the photos were out of place, The giving of money to a female student was out of place, even if affordable for him. To me it seems like some one on a personal level, out of control. i know many studenst are gratfully for His time and eforts for you, but thats not what is in question. read those four reorts, as if you did not know the person involed.What would you then see/it's hard to not see a pattern of behavior that just wouldnt stop.And the stopping of that behavoir, was only up to one person to do, mr Flanagan. i think its right that you Honor the teacher that He was, but at the same time you cant over look the past year of behavior, and wonder what went wrong. He, Mr Flanagan, has had the chance to set the record stright, as what were his motives and I have not seen it in any local paper. He could of had the chance to aruge this matter at a BOE meeting, before the whole Board, but he choise to resign instead I was never his student,...but is this what he taught you? Some times the last lessons taught, are the most important ones
Wow to 12:36. And again, WOW! You wrote the most sane analysis of this case that I have heard anywhere. Thank you for posting so that we can all read your words. Especially the last words. You make perfect sense and I have to rethink my whole position on this. Thank you for waking me up.
Hey Jay, Why don't you post the name of the asshole teacher at NMHS who accused Mr. Flanagan? You were smart enough to obtain these documents, why not ruin the SOB who started this? Rumor has it that The Today Show is planning on doing a little investigating of their own. Would be nice to hear from all of the little liars. Boy, did NMHS shoot themselves in the foot.
YOu could only hope that The TodayShow, does not get involed.....for they may want computer files and text messages, the other shoe to drop. Those who made complaints were, students and parents a named Coach. the teacher who saw the back rub, after the payment for college tests,. was the One teacher who was doing His job. these people did not ruin His reputaion, that was done all by him self. has there been a answer, or reply to any news times stories?....Not that has been seen. What makes you think that The today show would show a intrest in a teacher, called to "touchy" creppy" spending his time at all girl events for his Hobby..and the mailing of 50 pic to some ones home....a female. there is no injustice here, just some one who has no defense for his actions,, and took the money and ran. If any show picks this up....it be nancy grace...There is a story here, but not the one You want.
To all of you who are saying negative things about Mr. Flanagan and don't know him: Spend 5 minutes with the man and you will see that he is just that genuinely nice of a person.
There are no hidden agendas with him. Those reports that you are reading are written by the principal. He is going to slant it however he wants.
Mr. Flanagan chose to retire because he is not a teacher that will ignore a student in need or in distress. He would have to agree to not help students out if he were to continue to teach at NMHS.
Photography is his hobby, people! Since he's been told not to photograph students, he's been photographing landscapes and the outdoors.
Here's just one sentence from a graduation speech he gave years ago. Stephen Flanagan walks the walk, and in keeping with his beliefs, has decided to walk away from NMHS rather than compromise his beliefs in how people should be treated and how he should conduct his life.
"Fill your life with good works of kindness so that when the time comes to reflect upon what you have accomplished, you will have the satisfaction which comes from knowing the lives of other people were made better and their burdens eased because you lived."
How will you reflect back on your life when the time comes?
Why didn't he respond to the allegations that were presented to him in the meetings? People, wake up. There's more negative here that we don't know. Does the negative outweigh the positive? There was more than one girl. There were many girls who complained and many parents. Stop looking for the one colleague who made the complaint. The school system can't play the game of "we'll let him go this time because he's a good guy" when the lawyers are swarming around like vultures. What would happen if a young cheerleader or dancer or swimmer or gymnast came forward with allegations that were really frightful and it was found out that the school knew there were problems and didn't act? Yes, we taxpayers would be footing the bill for a big payout. This thing is terribly sad.
Mr. Flanagan put his own desires,needs and preferences ahead of past, current and future students.
That is clear.
What emergency in this girls life warranted him throwing his career away?
I know there are serious issues in the world - death, pregnancy, bullying, cancer, loss, not getting into the college of your choice, failing a test, your favorite shirt in the washer and not dryer...
Was the student in imminient danger? No. Why didn't he call the police? Why didn't he call the principal or assistant principal? I know one of the assistant principals and she is very nice.
Mr. Flanagan retired. He could have stopped photographing students. He could have stopped going to school events. There were other options.
I don't know for certain, but his punishment couldn't have been more than 1 month of unpaid leave UNLESS he would have been TERMINATED.
If he would have been terminated, Ms. Baldelli lied to the paper. Either the offense was punishable by termination or not. The investigation was complete. And Mr. Flanagan was told of the investigations outcome and choose to retire.
For pete's sake did you notice that he was at these meetings with his union rep? He chose to walk instead of all the truth coming out in a termination process.
It's amazing/ironic/hilarious (choose one) how all the presumably government-haters who post here are so willing to take at face value the word of the government (i.e. administration) in this case without asking some logical questions. Here's one: did Flanagan ever know he could respond in writing to these allegations and reprimand letters? Here's another: How long has Shugrue been principal - 5 or 6 years? He never knew about the collages of photos on the wall until someone complained? Pleeeez. He had to have approved the placement of the photo collage in the school's lobby! Here's a third: Was there ever any other complaint against Steve Flanagan in 25 years? Fourth: Shugrue has a pattern of targeting and eliminating teachers. He allegedly had an evaluation falsified several years ago so it would make Gordon Markowicz look bad. Believe what you want, but the only thing you'll be proving is your own gullibility.
AGAIN: HIS UNION WAS THERE WITH HIM. Do you think for one second that the UNION would have let this go if there wasn't something weird going on? where there's smoke there's fire.
Since Mr. Flanagan retired, no more information from the administration will be coming out.
I kinda wished they did that dateline thing with him.
60 people at the rally on the green can't be wrong.
The parent who received 50 pictures of their daughter was wrong.
Mr. Flanagan had 6+ months to clear his name and continue teaching. He choose poorly. He helped one student with some temporary issue vs. helping hundreds of students for the next 12 years of his career.
MR Flanagan, is a very intelegent person,His retirement is set for june 30th of this year. At this time, His Working stasis is . as "LEAVE OF ABSENCE. For some reason, he did not have to use what ever balance of sick days that may be on the books. At this point is he collecting His usual salary, and benefit package. You would think that a leave of absence, would only be used in a situation like a Medical leave, thus, unable to pro form his duties for medical reason.Unable to work.
If you look at the FACE BOOK pages, You will see posted....that Mr Flanagan does in deed work at wes Conn, as a Teacher there.
So the question is,..how could some one be to sick to work at one school. but by magic, healthy enough to teach at another, while on a LEAVE OF ABSENCE?
The tax payers of New Milford, should look in to this, as well as the BOE to see if any condition's of this leave are being abused. Leaves of Absence are granted, not given, so BOE has a say in this.
And you last two are missing a point: if the administrators at that school weren't on a witch hunt, he'd still be teaching there at no additional cost. By the way, I'm assuming you've read the documents. Again, trust government (administration) much? Better stay away from Metro-North tracks, because it's obvious you don't recognize a railroad when it's right in front of your face!
if you look at the documents, I dont think You see a Rail roading i see a person who was unwilling to change His behavior. It come down to not crossing boundaries, when He had ditched a staff meeting. touching or photos of girls teams in skimpy uniforms, to giving of money to others.with out her parents approvals or permission, in secret, from the staff, and parents both...This is all about Him, and the way he was to teach,and how, disregardful what the Admin. had told him.so no rail road here, just a Hero to some, with feet of clay
who the heck are you? would you please NOT go away...EVER? You make sooooo much sense. I agree with you 100% and I'm sure there are a lot of us out here! Thank you so much for thinking and posting clearly.
who the heck are you? would you please NOT go away...EVER? You make sooooo much sense. I agree with you 100% and I'm sure there are a lot of us out here! Thank you so much for thinking and posting clearly.
Here is a link to the speech Mr. Flanagan gave at our graduation in 1997. His words couldn't be more true today than they were then...especially in this situation.
We get it Emily, you like him but don't let the facts distract you from the truth. Read the transcripts and if you think your "hero" did the right thing, he failed you as a teacher and you don't even know it.
This is the sad thing and shows how he did brainwash these weak minded girls in a vulnerable time of their lives. People don't get forced out of their job for nothing even if he did give an inspiring speech at one point.
As mentioned I could see this a mile away with his creepy wanna-be mentor gig. he was in it for the cheap hugs which obviously he could not do without. Flan failed as a teacher and especially the males he neglected in his class so spare us the "hero" worship because you liked him.
Emily, he manipulated you enough but didn't teach you to identify when you were being manipulated for a creepy old guy's fun.
89 comments:
Thanks for posting Jay.
I second that. He did what the News Times couldn't. Thank you.
how did you get hold of these documents? are they public?
Jay, thank you for the community service.
7:22, Jay and G. Gordon Liddy broke into East Street school at the request of Spiro Agnew to help Richard Nixon clear his name.
http://www.ct.gov/foi/site/default.asp
Maybe the Town and BOE should publish a list of FOI requests like Brookfield does online.
Thanks for posting so we get a better idea of what happened. Flanagan was clearly warned by administrators about his behavior. By all accounts he was an outstanding teacher of history but teachers also can not be insubordinate.
What annoys me is that he is being allowed to retire at the end of the school year so taxpayers will now pay his salary AND pay for a substitute teacher as well. There is something wrong with that picture.
You are so right. Was this the result of a union deal?
not just insubordinate - but STUPID! What was he thinking? Sounds as if he has a severe problem/addiction/perversion. Why was he even allowed to stay with the school after the March findings?
7:56 - Ha ha!
Why a deal? Why was he not fired in December?
a Problem/addiction/perversion? What the heck is wrong with you people. In the days we live in stupid little girls make up lies for attention and pitty. When I was in NMHS Mr. Flan was the exact same way. He let me sit in his classes when I had a different teacher and him allowing me to do that is the only reason I passed history and was able to graduate. Also, I went through years of teachers both male and female rubbing my back or trying to calm me down when upset. Mr. Flan was a friend to the students and because parents are over protective and children are itching for attention he's been made into a pervert. Ten years ago a teacher helping a student made him a better teacher, and now it ruins careers. This makes me sick.
For those of you who have not had the honor of knowing Steve Flanagan I am posting a link for you to see why so many are heartbroken over this. I ask you to please try and focus on his words. This was his commencement address to the class of 1997.
http://spencerlawson.com/1997GradSpeech.pdf
http://usnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/01/05/9983462-schools-former-teacher-of-the-year-arrested-on-sex-abuse-charges
I have had the privilege of knowing Steve Flanagan for over 20 years. He is without a doubt one of the most caring teachers I have ever known.
What has happened I believe is a case of how our society has changed.
Years ago a teacher would have been commended for helping a student in need and comforting a distraught student. Now it can is viewed as inappropriate.
I realize the administration has laws and policy that must be followed. I am sure it was very difficult for all parties involved to have this final outcome.
It is unfortunate that our teachers and our administration in today's society have been put in this position.
None of us know what issues that Steve had to face with this student and maybe he felt that it was more important to help a student then to follow the policy.Was the student suicidal who knows?
Please do not just forget the 26 years that he gave to the students of our system as a totally devoted teacher.
I leave you with these thoughts, one student who left him after a heated argument and complained against the thousand students who have come to his defense.
One parent who complained against the thousand who have commended him including his fellow colleagues.
How many teachers have had issues with parents over the years. How many parents have complained about a teacher over their students career. Its human nature that not everyone will work well together.
I for one stand by my belief that he is not only and outstanding teacher but also a wonderful caring human being.
I feel heartbroken not only for Steve and our administration that we have come to this point in our society but for all teachers and future teachers.
Times have changed and not for the better.No one has gained from this the Town of New Milford lost a wonderful teacher.
Our administration had to deal with losing someone as they said "who had a stellar career".Who they felt "there was no indication his actions were motivated by sexual desire or interest".
Teachers are faced with excruciating desicions in our times now. Schools can be filled with violence.Years ago no one would have believed what happened in Colombine or Virginia Tech could take place.Bulling has caused how many suicides in school systems. So, how do they decide which student needs their support if that student only feels safe speaking to them. Does the teacher just follow the rules and pray for the best outcome?
I hope all parties can heal from this terrible situation and that before others find fault they really try to "walk in their shoes".
Pat escribe:
"I ask you to please try and focus on his words. This was his commencement address to the class of 1997."
I read this emotion laden screed. The poor bastard didn't follow his own advice: "behave yourselves out there".
You have proven my point and I could not thank you more. Everyone takes something different away from a situation. You only saw the words "behave yourselves out there".
I saw be that person who offers to help. Each of you have the power within your grasp to be a great service and help to others. "Exercise the power of generosity. Let your life be one of kindness which becomes a habit and instinct so that you find yourself helping someone in need without stopping to think of reasons of why you shouldn't".
And never estimate the healing power of helping a person in their time of distress.What may seem a simple gesture (rubbing a students back) you might have the power to help someone through an anxious moment to overcome fear, cope with distress.
So, as you see very different view points on this subject matter.Thank you for helping to clarify what I was trying to point out.
Mr. Flanagan always put his students interest ahead of his fellow teachers and administration. He confronted another teacher (department head I must add) about the grade I received because he felt that I was treated unfairly. What he did then saved my admissions to college. He helped secure my future by confronting a fellow teacher and boss. I'm not surprised that he would give some financial support to a student in need. That is just the type of teacher and human being he was and is. We are too caught up in this political correctness BS.
Pat wrote:
"Everyone takes something different away from a situation."
Yup...I don't find affection:
defined as fond attachment, devotion, or love...
to be an appropriate feeling to have between a student and a teacher....
That address rings a lot of warning bells with this parent and grandparent...as does the inappropriate touching and stalking. He should have been fired long ago and shame on you for trying to whitewash this teacher and his unprofessional behavior. They generally target students with "self-esteem" issues.
It is with great sadness that I read some of these posts here today!!!! Mr Flan is an outstanding teacher and human being!!!! He is the type of teacher all educators should take lessons from!!!! He made such a difference in my life and so many other students lives! He has compassion for his students where other teachers just have coldness and emptiness. This story has destroyed my faith that teachers are allowed to do good things for their students and sadly alot of teachers are going to think twice before doing any good for them again!!! As a parent of a child with special needs , I look toward the teachers to give my son love and compassion, support and hugs when I am not there to do so. Because of this now what!!!!!??????? This is disguting and sad!!!
Comptroller gone. Where?? Why??
Thank you Mr. Lewin for posting these documents. I had not until this point had the chance to read them all and in their entirety.
Mr. Flanagan was one of the best teachers I had in my entire matriculating life. (Including 2 college degrees.) I was a student who received hugs and pats on the back from Mr. Flanagan, as are many more students (both male and female) who are healthy, happy, successful contributors to society and whom I bet would say that Mr. Flan had something to do with that.
He was the kind of Human Being (not just a teacher, and certainly not just a person,) that people in those tough high school years felt they could talk to. We felt he would understand. We knew he could emphasize. And he helped me through some of the toughest times of my life...which I will not go into detail here about (as Mr. Flanagan is probably one of the few people on this planet I trusted enough to talk to about them.)
I don't know what has happened to humanity (maybe it's this newly litigious society) where someone giving a needy person a hug is deemed inappropriate. I am as shocked as it seems Mr. Flanagan was, according to some of these documents, at the actions of the school board and NMHS employees.
You should take a look at the facebook page "Save Mr. Flanagan" as well as the Event on facebook detailing the Candle Lighting Ceremony that we are going to hold to commemorate one of the best teachers NMHS has ever seen. I don't think that you'll see ONE negative comment by ANYONE who has ever known or been taught by Mr. Flanagan. The people who are tainting his name are (very angry and argumentative, I might add) all people who have never even met the man. Well, one thing I can tell you p/o'd people is that Mr. Flanagan would have told you "not to believe the bullies. They haven't even taken the time to get to know you before passing judgment."
Yes, he chose not to comply to some of the school's regulations. I personally would like to believe he did that because they are just plain STUPID. People are worried more about getting sued than they are about the mental health and well-being of students. It is so, so very sad and pathetic.
Those of you who think so poorly of Mr. Flanagan because he chose to help someone instead of following the generic, impersonal regulations, should go to the Candle Lighting Ceremony and see just how many people will be standing out in the cold wishing that one of the best people we have ever known could at least have been shown the respect that he deserved. He should be commended, not reprimanded. Awarded, not left to retire. And his good name should be cleared. THAT I know for sure.
Emily K. Strelis, NMHS class of '97
University of New Hampshire, class of '01.
Does anyone know the name of the teacher that filed the complaint?
First - Jay, thank you for publishing. It does shed some light to the ludicrous degree at which some of these "Administrators" go to try to ruin someone that does not prescribe to their doctrine in lock step.
Second - If all teachers followed the doctrine that is dished out, the education system would be in serious trouble; more so than it is now. The way that the New Milford Administration continues to react to teachers such as Mr. Flanagan and others (there are plenty of them but they are too scared to raise their voice) just establishes a ruinous path for future students where the words "empathy", "inspiration", and "motivated" become demerits for teachers if they display any of these qualities. Just push the kids through each grade, no care as to the quality of education; it borders on orwellian.
Third - Mr. Flanagan did not just have students remember dates in a book; he made you think. I can list the number of teachers I had in High School that actually encouraged you to think and prepared you for what college may be. He actually took the time to challenge people to think outside of the normal and rote ways of learning and to provoke spontaneous thought which is sorely missing in most of our education systems. It is a statement about society that we have progressed to where we are and how people such as Mr. Flanagan are treated. It is also very revealing how the Administration has gone to great lengths to conceal the accuser. These actions are sending a bad message to our teachers. We constantly worry about the quality of people going into and remaining in teaching; the actions of the administration is a self fulfilling prophecy.
Smoke and mirrors Jay. What about Town Hall?
Come on people. Yes he was a great teacher. Yes he's compassionate. He's also insubordinate! Who takes 50 photos of someone after he's been told not to photograph that someone by the parents and his principal. This is a serious problem. He should have been fired. He had the warnings and taxpayers should not be paying him till June.
No post from God regarding the fist fight in town hall. No Only character assault against good teachers.
The highly respected Mr. J and the fool Joe G had a fist fight today in town hall. This idiot (Joe G) should been dumped years ago. Lives in New Fairfield so he can Vote for the Queen. Why is he still around and fighting with the Finance Chief.
"The town can be and has often been in the course of history the main source of mischief and disaster"
A pattern of Mischief continue's underfoot last night. The other fool is trying to survive along with the threatened!!RS really thinks he's Mayor next time. Soft as a grape is Abe.
"There are but very few men clever enough to know all the mischief they do"
The same game the Republicans play nationally is being played out by the greedy Republicans in New Milford right now.
"Vanity working on a weak head, produces every sort of mischief"
Um...Pat? Have you been drinking?
what a sorry, tiny, misguided person this Pat is
The 10:46 "Pat" is not the same "Pat" that posted earlier. The earlier one is thoughtful. The later one is a drunk.
Yeah what's the deal with the ray jankowski and joe Galante fist fight? I heard it on the scanner then drove by and saw Galante being led out by the cops. Jay since you are always in the mayors office did you happen to be there so you can tell us why these old dogies were fighting? Also i assume they got suspended right?
Just to clarify my posts are only regarding Steve Flanagan. I know NOTHING about what the other "Pat" is writing. I will be more careful to post my full name. I really dislike all the anonymous posts. I feel if you believe in something you should stand up and be counted.
So, Jay how about making posts available to only those who are willing to write their names on their posts.
Oh and I hope Ray is alright he is a nice guy.
Katrina its times like this I wished I drank!
I cant believe no one picked up on there was NO POLICE INVOLVEMENT that should tell folks something. It was a POLICY issue that was not adhered too.Again, times have changed and not for the better.
I am very proud of the almost two thousand students who have come to their former teachers defense and I think that speaks volumes about the man.
jay, can you also foi mr. flanagan's personnel folder for ALL documents and post the many positive letters and memos so those of us who do not know him can get the full picture.
and pat E, if everyone who posted here had to disclose their name, you would be the only poster! that would be boring, however i have much respect for you for having the courage to put your name on your posts.
i would suggest that all of you who love mr flan should start a massive letter writing campaign to the danbury news times so that those who do not read this site will know how beloved he is. the article in the dnt today is not pretty.
To anonymous
Also what they are not telling you is that the CEA and NMEA say they cannot comment publicly on discipline issues, but evidently the admin. is able to. Teachers are not allowed to speak to the media about anything. Someone released the documents. Also, read the last para. of the Sept. letter...it says the next step is termination. So, who believes it was solely his decision to resign? It appears the admin. is mostly concerned about their image right now and not his. Anyone want to comment on what they think numerous means? If it is the same girl and the same mother and one teacher reporting anonymously, is that numerous?
This is the same sort of support/comments that Joe South got when he died.
Fact: he drove drunk and crashed into a tree.
While tragic, it's kind of his own fault. And he could have hurt others.
But he was canonized also by the student body.
I admire the support, but I think it's misplaced.
There are those that want to vilify Mr. Flanagan, attempt to ruin his reputation, and resorting to the same sort of tactics as the Administration (hiding behind procedural secrecy as a matter of convenience). I am sure that Ms. Paddyfoot appreciates you doing her social media campaign. Interesting that we can make these documents public but the Adminstration is holding firm to protecting their person that fulfilled thier ability to push another talented educator out out the New Milford School System.
Their agenda is more important to the quality of the education for the students.
For those of you who would like to read what former students and parents have written regarding Mr Flanagan
http://www.change.org/petitions/new-milford-board-of-education-allow-mr-flanagan-back-to-work
Understanding that some things are so stupid that you get canned for doing them is something every student needs to learn.
Ex-students braying like idiots about their divine right to emotional support is evidence of educational malpractice.
Nobody except a federal judge has a constitutional right to incompetence on the job.
9:28 said "Someone released the documents" as if it was something secret. Not true. The state statutes make ALL disciplinary files public. Who is the town's FOI King? L-E-W-I-N.
Jason you make some good points but they are getting lost in the facts. The case wasn't made by and didn't result solely from one whistle-blower. Yes, I'd like to know who this dweeb was, too. Probably someone new who is jealous of Flan and maybe of the girls, too. Maybe she didn't get any attention growing up that she thought she deserved. That would be a shame.
Anyone can see what students are saying about Mr. Flanagan here on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/261739447218457/
As well as here on Facebook as well: http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/289126254473163/
Obviously you have to sign in.
I find it pathetic that "anonymous" from 10:51 a.m. has the audacity to say that "Ex-students braying like idiots about their divine right to emotional support is evidence of educational malpractice." If you are trying to point out that students need to learn that life is hard and that bureaucracy sucks, I think that life is what should teach us that. Not the firing of a great teacher thanks to another "anonymous" like you. You have obviously yourself learned all about it. And maybe you wouldn't be so jaded and hateful if you had a teacher like Mr. F.
Go bray yourself, you donkey.
Regarding the NM Comptroller - ad in today's help wanted section for new comptroller. Guess we know what happened. They certainly didn't waste any time.
To 8 : 34 am its been on the Town of New Milford website under jobs all week.
I don't wish to add to this discussion except for two facts: First, the teacher who filed the last complaint was male; and two, the meetings that Steve Flanagan missed while meeting with the student are basically gimmicks designed to impress NEASC, which will be evaluating the high school I believe later this year.
male? so it was someone who asked flanagan to share his pictures and was told no?
http://www.newmilford.org/filestorage/61/Combined_EDC_Rec.letter_%26_job_description_9-12-11.doc
That is the most pathetic job opening I have ever seen. How the he'll does the mayor and her republican cronies expect to attract a good employee? They put more thought into their parties at Tivolis than that job posting. These idiots ran on economic development but they sure don't seem to truly care about it. How pathetic.
How do we expect to attract and retain talent at $65,000?
Can the person even afford to move to town making that much?
'If you think hiring professionals is expensive, try hiring amateurs.'
That's a pretty high salary for the enitre Town Hall.
http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/Town-comptroller-resigns-under-duress-and-police-2451522.php
No one knows what really happened. The documents are just that, documents. They do not speak or breathe. I will stand behind Flan, now and forever. Flan gave me the confidence that I needed to survive my Senior year. I am forever grateful for that. And even though I have not had him as a teacher since high school, Flan always asks my Mom how I am, by name, when they see each other at his daughter's sporting events. So here I am braying away and proud to be doing so for a fantastic teacher!
The Future of America is in our Children. The indirect result of this situation is teaching OUR future generations NOT to listen and be caring toward our peers, colleagues, superiors and our fellow man but rather to point the finger at others so that they themselves (the ones pointing the finger) look better than the others.
Some of us learned that pointing fingers is bad in Kindergarden.
Some of us learned the Golden Rule as well.
What is unfortunate is that there are some Adults who have forgotton what their teachers taught them in Kindergarden.
I believe that the Golden Rule should be the curriculm for all Kindergarden students and what is ironic, if the NM Administration were to take Kindergarden again, they would fail because there is not proper evidence that these Adults have learned this basic rule of Life!
and there is plenty of "proper evidence" that you never learned grammar or how to spell
musSt bee A gredeWate of thee nU millfort sKewl sisteMh
Emily 97 brayed:
" Flan gave me the confidence'
Alas, he left out the critical thinking necessary to balance Gen X, Y and Z's narcissism, overwrought emotionalism, consumerism and sense of entitlement.
to Katrinasilert
And you know for certain who this other Pat is? Or if the person posting this comment is using their real name?
I see you are so brave you say nasty comments about people but won't post your name. If you won't put your name to your post then we don't care what you have to say.
Will someone tell Tom Pilla that the Volunteer Abatement is governed by State Statute and can give no more than $1000 off your taxes.
DUUUUUUUHHHHHHHHH!
This guy was a VERY sick man and has been doing this creepy old guy pedophile Mentor gig for decades.
The girls used to take FULL advanatge of him and he ate it up. He ignored all the guys and focused on the girls in a very vulnerable time of their lives. I always knew this guy was a creep and reading the trancripts is VERY disturbing.
Tom if you knew this was governed by State Statute how would we do this:
Civic leader Tom Pilla wants to reward the town's volunteer firefighters and emergency ambulance crews by increasing the tax abatement credit they are eligible to receive annually.
At the Town Council meeting Monday night, Pilla said the town began allowing the abatements in the 1990s, but he believes the amount needs to be increased. He offered to serve on a committee to consider how this might be done.
He said he believes the volunteers deserve additional compensation as thanks for their contributions.
Read more: http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/Pilla-would-lower-volunteers-taxes-2490419.php#ixzz1jMbipi63
In response to: THEGUN said...
to Katrinasilert
And you know for certain who this other Pat is? Or if the person posting this comment is using their real name?
I see you are so brave you say nasty comments about people but won't post your name. If you won't put your name to your post then we don't care what you have to say.
January 12, 2012 4:14 PM
I post my entire name in all of my comments. If you took the time to read them in their entirety you would see that.
Thanks for proving my point, though. People who are saying awful things about this wonderful teacher are not doing their homework. (Pun definitely intended.)
Emily Strelis, NMHS, class of '97.
In case anyone would like to read up a little bit more about what's going on with the Vigil and what some people have been writing in letters to the editor at The Spectrum, here are a few more links:
http://www.newmilfordspectrum.com/local/article/Teacher-s-supporters-get-OK-for-vigil-2494464.php
http://www.newmilfordspectrum.com/news/article/NMHS-grad-We-have-ex-teacher-s-back-2472153.php
http://www.newmilfordspectrum.com/local/article/Vigil-set-Sunday-to-support-Flanagan-2471309.php
- Emily Strelis, NMHS class of '97
To Jay: We're waiting to see the documents relating to complaints in Mr. Shugrue's file to get a really complete picture of what was actually involved in the current witch hunt against Mr. Flanagan.
It seems that some students and others are correct, to a point .Not haveing any experence at NMHS, but by reading the four letters posted, it should tell those who Know Mr flanagan, that some things in his behavior have changed,
To continue to disregard Warnings, and to risk his career, shows "some thing wrong here," as dr Lee would say.
The touching and the photos were out of place, The giving of money to a female student was out of place, even if affordable for him. To me it seems like some one on a personal level, out of control.
i know many studenst are gratfully for His time and eforts for you, but thats not what is in question. read those four reorts, as if you did not know the person involed.What would you then see/it's hard to not see a pattern of behavior that just wouldnt stop.And the stopping of that behavoir, was only up to one person to do, mr Flanagan.
i think its right that you Honor the teacher that He was, but at the same time you cant over look the past year of behavior, and wonder what went wrong.
He, Mr Flanagan, has had the chance to set the record stright, as what were his motives and I have not seen it in any local paper.
He could of had the chance to aruge this matter at a BOE meeting, before the whole Board, but he choise to resign instead
I was never his student,...but is this what he taught you?
Some times the last lessons taught, are the most important ones
Wow to 12:36. And again, WOW! You wrote the most sane analysis of this case that I have heard anywhere. Thank you for posting so that we can all read your words. Especially the last words. You make perfect sense and I have to rethink my whole position on this. Thank you for waking me up.
Hey Jay,
Why don't you post the name of the asshole teacher at NMHS who accused Mr. Flanagan? You were smart enough to obtain these documents, why not ruin the SOB who started this? Rumor has it that The Today Show is planning on doing a little investigating of their own. Would be nice to hear from all of the little liars. Boy, did NMHS shoot themselves in the foot.
hey can you set up an RSS feed? Just a thought. Thanks for considering!
YOu could only hope that The TodayShow, does not get involed.....for they may want computer files and text messages, the other shoe to drop.
Those who made complaints were, students and parents a named Coach. the teacher who saw the back rub, after the payment for college tests,. was the One teacher who was doing His job.
these people did not ruin His reputaion, that was done all by him self.
has there been a answer, or reply to any news times stories?....Not that has been seen. What makes you think that The today show would show a intrest in a teacher, called to "touchy" creppy" spending his time at all girl events for his Hobby..and the mailing of 50 pic to some ones home....a female.
there is no injustice here, just some one who has no defense for his actions,, and took the money and ran. If any show picks this up....it be nancy grace...There is a story here, but not the one You want.
wow! even more common sense. Thanks. Yes, the today show story would be about the dark side of the trusted teacher.
To all of you who are saying negative things about Mr. Flanagan and don't know him: Spend 5 minutes with the man and you will see that he is just that genuinely nice of a person.
There are no hidden agendas with him. Those reports that you are reading are written by the principal. He is going to slant it however he wants.
Mr. Flanagan chose to retire because he is not a teacher that will ignore a student in need or in distress. He would have to agree to not help students out if he were to continue to teach at NMHS.
Photography is his hobby, people! Since he's been told not to photograph students, he's been photographing landscapes and the outdoors.
Here's just one sentence from a graduation speech he gave years ago. Stephen Flanagan walks the walk, and in keeping with his beliefs, has decided to walk away from NMHS rather than compromise his beliefs in how people should be treated and how he should conduct his life.
"Fill your life with good works of kindness so that when the time comes to reflect upon what you have accomplished, you will have the satisfaction which comes from knowing the lives of other people were made better and their burdens eased because you lived."
How will you reflect back on your life when the time comes?
Why didn't he respond to the allegations that were presented to him in the meetings? People, wake up. There's more negative here that we don't know. Does the negative outweigh the positive? There was more than one girl. There were many girls who complained and many parents. Stop looking for the one colleague who made the complaint. The school system can't play the game of "we'll let him go this time because he's a good guy" when the lawyers are swarming around like vultures. What would happen if a young cheerleader or dancer or swimmer or gymnast came forward with allegations that were really frightful and it was found out that the school knew there were problems and didn't act? Yes, we taxpayers would be footing the bill for a big payout. This thing is terribly sad.
I think he's running from something serious. Sorry.
Okay, Jay - I think this issue has been fully discussed. I am ready for a new topic.
Mr. Flanagan put his own desires,needs and preferences ahead of past, current and future students.
That is clear.
What emergency in this girls life warranted him throwing his career away?
I know there are serious issues in the world - death, pregnancy, bullying, cancer, loss, not getting into the college of your choice, failing a test, your favorite shirt in the washer and not dryer...
Was the student in imminient danger? No.
Why didn't he call the police?
Why didn't he call the principal or assistant principal? I know one of the assistant principals and she is very nice.
Mr. Flanagan retired. He could have stopped photographing students. He could have stopped going to school events.
There were other options.
I don't know for certain, but his punishment couldn't have been more than 1 month of unpaid leave UNLESS he would have been TERMINATED.
If he would have been terminated, Ms. Baldelli lied to the paper.
Either the offense was punishable by termination or not. The investigation was complete. And Mr. Flanagan was told of the investigations outcome and choose to retire.
Believe me administration lying is a very real possibility.
Many in the district will confirm the dishonest tactics.
A not so hypothetical scenario:
Retire, go away, we will pay for the rest of the year OR we WILL begin the termination process. He agrees to retire and not fight them.
For pete's sake did you notice that he was at these meetings with his union rep? He chose to walk instead of all the truth coming out in a termination process.
He sent 50 pictures of a student to her house.
She didn't want to confide in anyone else.
That sounds healthy.
post the upskirts!
It's amazing/ironic/hilarious (choose one) how all the presumably government-haters who post here are so willing to take at face value the word of the government (i.e. administration) in this case without asking some logical questions.
Here's one: did Flanagan ever know he could respond in writing to these allegations and reprimand letters?
Here's another: How long has Shugrue been principal - 5 or 6 years? He never knew about the collages of photos on the wall until someone complained? Pleeeez.
He had to have approved the placement of the photo collage in the school's lobby!
Here's a third: Was there ever any other complaint against Steve Flanagan in 25 years?
Fourth: Shugrue has a pattern of targeting and eliminating teachers. He allegedly had an evaluation falsified several years ago so it would make Gordon Markowicz look bad.
Believe what you want, but the only thing you'll be proving is your own gullibility.
AGAIN: HIS UNION WAS THERE WITH HIM. Do you think for one second that the UNION would have let this go if there wasn't something weird going on? where there's smoke there's fire.
The union wasn't there with him until the final sexual harassment claim. By that time the groundwork was already laid.
Since Mr. Flanagan retired, no more information from the administration will be coming out.
I kinda wished they did that dateline thing with him.
60 people at the rally on the green can't be wrong.
The parent who received 50 pictures of their daughter was wrong.
Mr. Flanagan had 6+ months to clear his name and continue teaching.
He choose poorly.
He helped one student with some temporary issue vs. helping hundreds of students for the next 12 years of his career.
That is not good judgement.
MR Flanagan, is a very intelegent person,His retirement is set for june 30th of this year.
At this time, His Working stasis is . as "LEAVE OF ABSENCE.
For some reason, he did not have to use what ever balance of sick days that may be on the books. At this point is he collecting His usual salary, and benefit package.
You would think that a leave of absence, would only be used in a situation like a Medical leave, thus, unable to pro form his duties for medical reason.Unable to work.
If you look at the FACE BOOK pages, You will see posted....that Mr Flanagan does in deed work at wes Conn, as a Teacher there.
So the question is,..how could some one be to sick to work at one school. but by magic, healthy enough to teach at another, while on a LEAVE OF ABSENCE?
The tax payers of New Milford, should look in to this, as well as the BOE to see if any condition's of this leave are being abused.
Leaves of Absence are granted, not given, so BOE has a say in this.
very good ideas. Don't forget that we are also paying for a SUB to do his work so the taxpayers get a double whammy
And you last two are missing a point: if the administrators at that school weren't on a witch hunt, he'd still be teaching there at no additional cost.
By the way, I'm assuming you've read the documents. Again, trust government (administration) much?
Better stay away from Metro-North tracks, because it's obvious you don't recognize a railroad when it's right in front of your face!
if you look at the documents, I dont think You see a Rail roading i see a person who was unwilling to change His behavior. It come down to not crossing boundaries, when He had ditched a staff meeting. touching or photos of girls teams in skimpy uniforms, to giving of money to others.with out her parents approvals or permission, in secret, from the staff, and parents both...This is all about Him, and the way he was to teach,and how, disregardful what the Admin. had told him.so no rail road here, just a Hero to some, with feet of clay
who the heck are you? would you please NOT go away...EVER? You make sooooo much sense. I agree with you 100% and I'm sure there are a lot of us out here! Thank you so much for thinking and posting clearly.
who the heck are you? would you please NOT go away...EVER? You make sooooo much sense. I agree with you 100% and I'm sure there are a lot of us out here! Thank you so much for thinking and posting clearly.
It's a shame downtown that the citgo sign is more prominent than the view of the brick house behind it.
Plus I think a couple of those trees blocking the view would make good fire wood.
Here is a link to the speech Mr. Flanagan gave at our graduation in 1997. His words couldn't be more true today than they were then...especially in this situation.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.spencerlawson.com%2F1997GradSpeech.pdf&h=7AQHcs1b4AQGDPtqbcuWS7CrKucr1gGh9-ZiL7k2F7V3B3w
It opens as a PDF. Worth the read.
We get it Emily, you like him but don't let the facts distract you from the truth. Read the transcripts and if you think your "hero" did the right thing, he failed you as a teacher and you don't even know it.
This is the sad thing and shows how he did brainwash these weak minded girls in a vulnerable time of their lives. People don't get forced out of their job for nothing even if he did give an inspiring speech at one point.
As mentioned I could see this a mile away with his creepy wanna-be mentor gig. he was in it for the cheap hugs which obviously he could not do without. Flan failed as a teacher and especially the males he neglected in his class so spare us the "hero" worship because you liked him.
Emily, he manipulated you enough but didn't teach you to identify when you were being manipulated for a creepy old guy's fun.
Gosh...right on the $$$ and beautifully expressed. Thank you.
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