By PETE BANDA
Staff Writer
reporter@sbnewspaper.com
Simply put, someone or something is going to have to go. At a special meeting on Monday, the San Benito CISD School Board approved a reduction of staff proposal from Superintendent Dr. Marc A. Puig, effectively putting any program, school, or organization at the risk of downsizing their departments, which includes everyone from custodial positions, all the way up to administration.
Initially, the target areas for reduction, which are entirely up to Dr. Puig to pinpoint, were supposed to be proposed on Monday, April 6, but that list is now expected to not be ready until mid-April.
Want the whole story? Pick up a copy of the San Benito News, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.
105 comments
Skip to comment form ↓
Are You Serious?
May 5, 2015 at 12:03 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
To Factually Speaking:
You have a huge problem with Mr. T’s friends. Well, I bet you didn’t have a problem with the “T Shirt Shop” group…. right?
Fatima and her good buddy Yliana made sure that this district spent and spent. Fatima was the Finance Chairperson as she was appointed by her good buddy, Board President Yliana.
So please, just let the voters decide.
And DECIDE THEY WILL ON Saturday!
Joe G must stay Out!!!
May 5, 2015 at 11:36 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Joe G is not to answer, and the community has made that very clear. His a self serving politician that has gained tremendously at the the expense of our district. He has made it very clear at the establishments he hangs out, that he would get Dallas Cowboy tickets as well as concert tickets for him and all his family. In addition, his family received and continues to receive special treatment in our district. If you don’t believe me, ask our fellow co-workers if Joe’s family receive special treatment.. Waste of tax dollars! What a joke people! His the last person we would want representing our district again. Vote smart keep Joe G OUT!!!!!
no buyers
May 6, 2015 at 11:32 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
negative. yliana and fatima are the last people we would want on the board. there is not one program, project they have initiated to improve this district. they have been proven to be toxic with everything from the ridiculous memo yliana sent out, which she didn’t even know she was unauthorized to send (source of insurance expense), to the superintendent’s paid year long suspension, unnecessary interim supers, investigation expenses to law firms that brought nothing, etc. these women are done! they are not qualified to lead. it disappoints one to know they will get more than 5-10 votes because that reflects poorly on the citizens of san benito. it says they either don’t know what their voting for or don’t care.
boring
May 4, 2015 at 3:26 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
x/wp#dk=$&gggggg……(falls asleep on keyboard reading makes-no-sense pro-yliana post)
Same Path... No Thank You!
May 4, 2015 at 1:06 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Yliana and Fatima are CLEARLY NOT THE ANSWER! THEY are RESPONSIBLE for this MESS.
Don’t take my word, watch every recorded board meeting. I have.
NEW PATH….QUALIFIED LEADERSHIP … The time has come.
Keep Joe G Out !!!
May 4, 2015 at 11:00 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@Fuente
You want to tell me that Joe G is the answer, please. He was notorious for creating the committee that hired coach Gant instead of Coach Hilms. Let’s not forget people how Joe G hired several unqualified individuals for political favors, as well as politically retaliated against those who went against him. Joe G is a huge mistake so vote smart people, keep Joe G out!!!
francisco
May 4, 2015 at 1:13 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
anyone is better than the disasters that have been yliana and fatima. i think we can all agree they have proven to be a cancer on our school board. let’s move on.
Rebecca Milagros
May 4, 2015 at 3:04 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Actually, the REAL truth is that Mr. G. was at home recovering from a mild stroke, when he HAD TO go to the meeting because the board could NOT make a decision. People have a problem because he went with the Suoerintendent’s recommendation, which btw Gantt was the top applicant, then so be it. But what’s wrong with going with the top applicant/superintendents recommendation? Re: Committees. This wasn’t the first time a committee was used. But you know what?? At least he/the board at the time didn’t spend money on a firm to hire a coach. Yliana AND Fatima did. $10,000 to be exact. PLUS they bought out Gantts contract instead of making him finish it out. Wasteful! Wasteful!
The REAL TRUTH is that Joe G. did not do any hiring. The Superintendent did all the hiring, except when Yliana and Fatima took those hiring powers away from him and THEY promoted and hired several of their family/friends. Don’t forget Dr. Puig said it himself, since 2012, the district hired more than what they needed. Geez, it doesn’t take a genius to see that Mr. G. WAS NOT on the board- YLIANA & FATIMA were.
The fact is that Yliana and Fatima made many decisions that have left the district in the situation it is currently in. A vote for Fatima, is a vote for Yliana. A vote for Yliana is a vote for Fatima. These ladies have no shame running for office again. They won’t even admit their faults. Please vote wisely. Vote for Mr. G.
private
May 6, 2015 at 2:47 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
If you look into the LAW the SUPER SHOULD NOT have hiring power! You all are so quick to point the finger on those “four” but the reason the district is in this mess is because the SUPER had hiring power and was hiring everyone and their mamas. Like Joe. G’s son’s while he was on the board but where was nepotism then? He was creating positions that should not even exist and now Dr. Puig is cleaning up his mess. Kudos to you Dr. Puig for getting in and getting to work!
really?
May 7, 2015 at 12:37 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
…and it took 4-5 years for the problem to come to a head? not. the 4 you reference were in office since then and did nothing about it; probably because there wasn’t a problem or because they started the problem. i and anyone with some common sense are going with the latter. the current board has been in office less than a yr, and they’ve already started making headway on improvements (ie, getting rid of interim supers and hiring FT super, addressing over staffing). who knows where we’d be if those other 4 were still in charge?
Fuente
May 3, 2015 at 6:39 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Good to see 1112 SBCISD Ballots cast this week.
San Benito Voters are not going to be fool this time. Yliana and Fatima were 2 of the majority members “throughout the past three years” when this mess started.
Yliana was the board president who make this drop in district funds happen.
Now she wants us to forget …. Now those who will have their names announced at tomorrow’s board meeting are all on her… her and Fatima who lead this district down this very very sad road. These professionals went to college, came to work in a good district and now this happens.
Two not voted back last year and let us make sure that Yliana and Fatima do not return to this board. As voters, we deserve better for our children.
SBCISD employees, we will pray for you and your family.
Xavier
April 30, 2015 at 9:49 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Factually Speaking: who is to gain what? Yliana, board president, and her group of 3 were the board majority for many many years. Go back and watch the Sbcisd board videos. You will see that they ran the show from appointing their supporters as principals to getting the insurance lady back on the district payroll. Doubt me? Watch the board meetings on Sbcisd.
May 9th cannot come soon enough. Yliana and Fatima cannot explain one bit why the voted like they did all those years.
****Actions Speak Who You Are Everyday*** San Benito deserves better!
Eddie
April 30, 2015 at 2:42 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
No thank you to Fatima and Yliana.
Janie
April 30, 2015 at 2:40 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@Factually Speaking: leave Mr. T alone. You have no regard for anyone especially for all the people who volunteer their time to serve as board members.
And if you are so-above everyone, how about you use your name?
The voters of San Benito will speak on May 9th.
Vote for Mr. G.
April 30, 2015 at 11:22 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
My, you give the Tumberlinsons a TON of credit, when they haven’t even been around! The man is no longer on the board. Please leave him alone, and leave him out if this. He dedicated many years in education and on the board. The least you can do is respect that.
Your long-winded post is a sign of a woman grasping for straws. Calm down. The public will decide. Whether it’s Yliana, Fatima or Joe G., it is in the hands of the voters. And that will be ok.
Anti-Tumberlison Clan !!!!
April 30, 2015 at 6:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
They should deserve the credit when they( Tumberlinson’s) financially support their candidates. They have the audacity to control who runs for school board with their money. So, yes, they do deserve the credit and also the blame for a lot of the issues going on with our district. The voters/ tax payers are aware of their manipulating ways and want change for a better school district. We will vote anti- Tumberlinson candidates this time around.. Fatima Huerta, Anna Cruz, Michael Vargas, Sloppy Joe will not get elected!!! True me..
Vote for Mr. G.
May 4, 2015 at 5:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
YOU have the audacity to make false statements! Where’s your proof that the Tumberlinsons fund ANYONES campaigns?? The ONLY ones that deserve credit for what has happened to the district are the previous majority June, Julian, FATIMA & YLIANA. Good luck proving otherwise. The voters will speak!
Sergio
April 28, 2015 at 9:57 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Board President for many years, Yliana had the audacity to make a statement tonight at the SBCISD Special Board Meeting after 15 Programs were announced as “Program Changes”.
She no doubt lead this district down this horrible path because she wanted to ACT like The Superintendent just because she has a certificate while she was in charge of the other board members.
For those employees who will not get a contract in May, just REMEMBER who was THE BOARD PRESIDENT PRIOR TO MAY 2014…. THAT WOULD BE THE LOS FRESNOS SCHOOL DISTRICT ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL, YLIANA!
Frances
April 26, 2015 at 11:51 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The amount of money, those board members who are running for re-election, spent is downright shameful.
How in the world can they have done this for the past three years?
Those board members elected are to represent each and every taxpayer and all they did was use the district funds for their own agenda.
YG and FH have no business trying to stay on the board.
Those two board members voted each time as the majority.
Don’t believe me?
Watch the taped board meetings.
I have because I will not vote for them this time.
As someone said earlier, “We know what YG and FH can do. No Thanks!”
Ditto on that sentiment!
Taxpayers Against Fraud
April 23, 2015 at 3:28 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
It was once criticized that some board members live off of welfare…and while that may be true, I beg to ask, ‘Does Rosalinda Garcia love off the Tumberlinson welfare?’ She lingers outside schools and district facilities distributing sample ballots for candidates she endorses. How could she ever expect to sell a home when all her focus is on school elections. Can’t reiterate help but wonder what’s in it for her! Imagine if she invested as much energy and time in exercise, self-beautification or even work?! Things that make you go hmmm. Sounds silly but is in fact true. Lol
So True !
April 23, 2015 at 9:51 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Very good points, couldn’t have said it better myself. Unfortunately, this is what our town has festered up politically. I know our town will vote for a better school district and that does not include Tumberlison candidates!
You want the truth?
April 22, 2015 at 3:27 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
REPLY TO: the_real_truth
LISTEN, YOU WANT THE TRUTH?
Your attempt at setting the narrative by claiming “No Harm; No Foul” is a very lame attempt at deflecting blame and excusing illegal behavior violating standard protocol. I can only surmise that after “legal review”, the San Benito News decided to repost Rosalinda G. Garcia’s comment as it appears that her April 6, 2015 at 4:21 pm comment was merely a reitteration of what the San Benito News had previously reported.
If nothing else, read the editorial comments CONSIDER THIS: In the Interest of Professionalism and CONSIDER THIS: The Unfortunate Legacy of the Board President, and How Come You Don’t Call Me anymore? by former San Benito News editor Michael Rodriguez
Bottom line, all incumbents running for re-election have had their opportunity to lead the San Benito School District but have failed miserably: Draining the “Reserve Fund” to fund the self funded insurance program, supporting the hiring of two superintendents (one on long-term suspension), hiring a battery of lawyers to conduct an investigation resulting in no charges, etc).
Will the new batch of candidates do a “better job”? Who knows! We no longer have “candidates forums” where citizens can ask questions directly to the candidates (at least those candidates who actually show up).
The Business Manager and the Risk Manager should both be on the Superintendent’s and School Board’s sight. In the corporate world, they would be searching for a new job. What we got ain’t working.
In the “words of wisdom” from former editor Michael Rodriguez “Forget the silly notion that if you avoid a problem it’ll go away.”
Ridiculous
April 23, 2015 at 3:04 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Michael, I mean You want the truth?, we all know this is your post as you were at central office at this time and we all know how you loved the political drama.
Vicente S.
April 23, 2015 at 6:22 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
To You Want the Truth: THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
To allow us to read for ourselves the links you provided are a breath of fresh air. No one can dispute the written word.
I knew “_the_real_truth” was way off base and these links prove it.
Good try “_the_real_truth”
Rey F.
April 23, 2015 at 8:02 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Lol! You REALLY think this was Michael’s post? Then I’m guessing you’re Yliana? I mean, truth be told, she would be the only one offended by “You want the real truth.” We all know Michael, and if he had something to say, he wouldn’t be hiding. He would tell you to your face and/or make a special appearance on The News. Quit grasping for straws Yliana. The facts remain, and none of the bad decisions you AND Fatima made will be forgotten.
You want the truth?
April 24, 2015 at 1:22 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
#Ridiculous……..¿WHAT YOU TALKIN ABOUT ?
Thanks for the compliment, but, sorry to disappoint you, I am not Michael! I am better looking!
Just curious, what or where is the “central office” that
Ylianayou refer to?.I must admit, I personally like the political drama.
Everyone VOTE. “Voter Apathy” is rampant in San Benito.
If we doubled the number of eligible voters who ACTUALLY VOTE, we would have a new slate of elected officals instead of having certain cliques within our city controlling the City Commission and the School Board.
Encore
April 22, 2015 at 11:07 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
“And that insurance letter!! Let’s not forget that Janie Gonzalez ADMITTED to writing the letter at the direction of Yliana Gonzalez!! Whether she retracted the letter or not, this foreshadowed what was to come…The changing of insurance agent to Salazar Insurance Group- the same insurance group written in that infamous letter.”
Employee!
April 23, 2015 at 10:53 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@encore
It’s interesting how people are so fixated with a letter that DID NOT COST THE DISTRICT NOR THE TAX PAYERS ANY MONEY! But, the important facts that cost THE district money are rarely mentioned. For example, over staffing, certain staff incurring over time( political favors), and certain staff given 2 year contract ( administrators) and teachers 1 year contract. The Tumberlinson board members have destroyed our school district and the facts have surfed. Voters, teachers and staff don’t let Tumberlinson bully you to vote for their candidates. We all know who they are Joe Gonzalez, Michael Vargas and Ana Cruz. Vote smart people!!
St. Ben
April 23, 2015 at 9:28 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
…so you’d rather have in office someone who’s been spinning her tires for over a decade at UTB trying to graduate and w/no relevant experience than someone who’s graduated from high school, a prestigious ivy league school and w/significant relevant experience in the same time period? yyyeah, that makes a lot of sense….said no one ever.
give me a break
April 24, 2015 at 3:30 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
St. Ben
By no means am I trying to insult you, but I must question your reasoning for supporting Michael Vargas. You appear to be stating that your support is in Mr. Vargas solely because he graduated from high school and then later an ivy league school plus a significant amount of relevant experience (in education) to boot. All these are great points, however, I find it necessary to point out that just because he graduated from an ivy league school and has worked for a total of 5 years in education that does not make him the best candidate for this seat. His opponent to my understanding from literature provided (political card) graduated from high school and later a university (not ivy league) then followed that with 18 years of hands on classroom experience.
Does the name Theodore Kaczyski (The Unibomber) ring a bell at all…he too graduated from an ivy league school and I highly doubt any of us would vote for him for San Benito School Board merely because he graduated from Harvard.
francisco
April 28, 2015 at 1:38 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
have you lost your mind? you’re comparing this vargas dude to the unabomber (not “unibomber”)? this reminds me of the time hank williams, jr. was on fox news, and he compared obama to hitler. even hard core right wing, anti-obama fox news anchor steve doocy was taken aback. bocephus later went into damage control mode issuing apologies on social media, but it was too late. the damage had been done; he lost monday night football gig, and who knows what else.
by your logic, we could compare this salinas cat to yliana and fatima, since they all went to UTB. we all know how those 2 worked out, so that’ wouldn’t be fair to salinas. if you want to go with experience, then wasn’t he a teacher aide or something like that? julian was a teacher aide, and we know how he worked out.
Janet
April 27, 2015 at 12:10 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Are you serious? The INSURANCE LETTER and YG reign of her so called power began immediately after she won re-election. GIVE US A BREAK! Make no mistake, she is hoping we all forget what SHE DID as a Board President.
NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!
Two not elected last time and two more to go.
the_real_truth
April 18, 2015 at 1:30 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
SB voters (not inclusive of Rosalinda Garcia, since she CAN’T vote in San Benito):
Remember, it was not long ago that Joe D. Gonzalez was a superintendent at San Benito CISD and was terminated by the board (at which time Joe G. Gonzalez) was a board member. He was one of the 7 responsible for ousting the then superintendent and now they can be seen openly supporting one another. Hypocrites!
It was not long ago that the previous board did consider Entegral Solutions in their efforts to generate monies for the district, this item was simply CONSIDERED but NO ACTION was ever taken. NO HARM, NO FOUL!
It was not long ago that the previous board proceeded to purchase tablets FOR STUDENT USE to enhance their instruction which utilization proves effectiveness since this was a resource to support teacher’s classroom instruction.
It was not long ago that the current board approved Anna Cruz’s program through UT that provides teachers with ‘strategies’ that are not innovative but rather ineffective since all teachers were never on board to implement. No resources came with this program either. What a waste of taxpayer dollars (MILLIONS TO BE EXACT)…not to mention CONFLICT OF INTEREST since she IS an employee of this same initiative in BISD.
It was not long ago that the previous board (specifically Anna Cruz, Oscar Medrano) secured the legal services of O’Hanlon to represent the HCA case for SBCISD…however, they failed to mention that O’Hanlon is a personal injury attorney…NOT SCHOOL LAW.
But as for HCA, it was not long ago that the clinic and Managed Care dilemma began…not as a result of Yliana but rather Oscar Medrano. It was he that brought in this plan which consequently resulted in overcharges and a lawsuit that cost the district much money and time to resolve. O’Hanlon handled this healthcare lawsuit…but be reminded he’s a personal injury attorney.
It was not long ago that the previous board was paying two superintendents and called for an investigation on Limon. There was a laundry list of accusations that impacted student safety among other wrongdoings but the new board overlooked findings and allowed his return.
It was not long ago that Limon opted to resign and soonafter Dr. Puig suddenly discovered the wrongdoings of his predecessor. Are SB voters really surprised?
It was not long ago that it was found that claims of monies missing with the band booster club resulted in demands for accountability for expenditures from this club. And why not ask for justification and accountability?!? After all, aren’t these monies intended for the students?
It was not long ago that a letter to change insurance was attributed to Yliana; however, Ana Cruz and Fatima Huerta stood in the shadows while she took all the heat. Let it be known that they, too, were part of this plan and were actively engaged in the discussion to proceed with such. Fact is, even after this letter surfaced, it was quickly retracted so AGAIN, NO HARM…NO FOUL. No monies were exchanged and no services were rendered.
It was not long ago that the board entrusted central office administration to manage district operations including finance only to be given limited information from the Business Manager. When and how is this business manager going to be held accountable for misinforming the board after repeatedly reassuring the board that the district was in ‘ok’ standing?
It was not long ago (referencing last year’s election) that many discrepancies were brought to the attention of Chris Davis (Cameron County elections clerk) and now suddenly it was highly recommended that they be allowed an opportunity to handle this year’s elections. Could it be that those discrepancies were valid and noteworthy? Truth be told that Sandra Tumberlinson had keys to the San Benito Tax Office. Could it be that there may have been tampering with the elections process then and now steps are being taken to keep dishonesty and malice out of this election?
It was not long ago that the current board approved that the County handle the elections and Oscar Medrano had the audacity to suggest that he provide a list of people to assist. Poor little guy is attempting to get his hands dirty in this election. Some people just never learn. This isn’t your election, Oscar…stay out of it!
It was not long ago and still to today that Rosalinda Garcia repeatedly states half-truths on the blogs being fed information that is only convenient to those she endorses. Clearly, these are her (and the Tumberlinsons) tactics to discredit those who are genuinely acting in the best interest of the district.
And if she is so well-versed in local governance, you’d assume that she’d know that Yliana is ONE SOLITARY vote and that ALL DECISIONS REQUIRE A MAJORITY OF 4 OR MORE VOTES? But then again, one can’t assume cuz you know where that leads….Obviously, she’s giving too much authority to the then board president whose only difference amongst other board members was her authority to facilitate board meetings and approve agendas. If Rosalinda is such an advocate for improving this district, why has she never filed to run? Oh, that’s right, she’s not eligible to vote in San Benito.
NOW YOU KNOW THE REST OF THE STORY…
Vote smart San Benito. Let’s leave politics out and get this district moving in the right direction.
Brilliance
April 21, 2015 at 8:41 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@ the_real_truth:
Thank you for bringing this to surface. I will certainly vote differently thanks to your comment. Anna and Fatima must go! It’s evident that Vargas is also part of this Klan.
Employee!
April 21, 2015 at 8:54 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Finally, a breath of fresh air to see people speaking the truth. After researching what has transpired the past three years this is the most accurate statements reviled. Bottom line, we the people/ voters are tired of being misinformed by gossip and deception from Tumberlinson supporters. We will vote smart this time around!! Great post! Vote Tumberlinson supporters out..
Rey
April 22, 2015 at 12:47 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The truth? You wouldn’t know the truth if it hit you in the face!
First of all, the O’Hanlon firm does practice School Law, among other areas of practice. To say that they are NOT School Law attorneys is a LIE.
http://808west.com
That Entegral Solutions presented before the board in October of 2011. The board took no action after some smart questioning, yet a year later, the board president (gee, I wonder who that was) brought this company back for not one, but TWO more presentations. Why?? Gee… I wonder!
http://youtu.be/Nk4jPyP0HJQ (16:15)
We will NEVER forget that Yliana and Fatima voted to pay the suspended superintendent AND two interim superintendents, while also paying ANOTHER law firm to “investigate” alleged wrongdoings, which there were NO ADVERSE FINDINGS!! And they expect us to be okay with this mishandling of money?
And that insurance letter!! Let’s not forget that Janie Gonzalez ADMITTED to writing the letter at the direction of Yliana Gonzalez!! Whether she retracted the letter or not, this foreshadowed what was to come…The changing of insurance agent to Salazar Insurance Group- the same insurance group written in that infamous letter. smh
It’s AMAZING how people can call others hypocrites for working together to reach the common goal of making SBCISD the best that it can be, yet they flip and flop all over the place when it is convenient to them.
Taxpayers Against Fraud
April 22, 2015 at 6:04 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Wow! Jaw dropping.
@ the_real_truth, your statements are quite interesting. Almost makes me wonder just how credible Rosalinda Garcia is. She’s almost beginning to sound like the Limon and McCall stating only what’s convenient and will make those candidates/incumbents she’s endorsing look appealing to the public. What’s that saying, ‘there’s always something behind the black and white, if you bother to scratch the surface.’ Looks like Rosalinda hasn’t done a great job at digging and has done nothing more than scratch the surface. Scratch on, Rosalinda…you might just find the truth.
PPP
April 22, 2015 at 11:06 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
“It was not long ago that Limon opted to resign and soon after Dr. Puig suddenly discovered the wrongdoings of his predecessor. Are SB voters really surprised?”
Yliana, Fatima, Julian, and June all had access to the same information Dr. Puig has access to and had the majority vote yet were incompetent of getting rid of Mr. Limon – all at the cost of the SBCISD students and taxpayers.
Two of them are out; the other two must be ousted as well. It’s one thing to be educated or uneducated. The SBCISD School Board does not need these people as members of it.
Excellent point the_real_truth!
Seinfeld
April 23, 2015 at 9:15 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@the_real_truth: “it’s not a lie if you believe it.” – george costanza
fortunately, san benites have learned a lesson the hard way and are kicking out the other half of the infamous majority four next month.
calling_all_hypocrits
April 18, 2015 at 12:46 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
at the most recent board meeting i attended, Rosalinda Garcia stood up and spoke during public comment. I can’t help but be amused at how ridiculous she sounded encouraging all voters to vote on May 9 claiming that the ‘more voters, the more money’ our district will generate. What a bunch of nonsense! She is so ill-informed that she has yet to realize that its ADA that generates funds for the district. Votes don’t necessarily generate district funds. And on the same note, she’s calling out all voters but i can’t help but wonder what’s in it for her? She resides on Kornegay Rd and isn’t even eligible to vote in San Benito. So why the eagerness to get voters out? Could it be that this may impact her realtor business?
Along the same lines…its so amusing to read her eloquent posts…yet when speaking publicly without her usual script (which is often poorly read without prior rehearsal) doesn’t quite match. Its very obvious that she’s actually posting garbage on account of someone coaching her.
Only in good ole’ San Bene!
charles
April 17, 2015 at 10:58 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
this disaster with the school district started with those four who were the majority just a short time ago. i really hope voters have learned their lesson and will vote wisely going forward. it was a blessing having two of them voted out last year. the remaining two need to get voted out this year, and none of them should ever be elected into public office again. they are done. the two running for re-election this year shouldn’t get more than 10 votes each. these four are the opposite of mount rushmore the way hot is the opposite of cold, south the opposite of north, etc.
Rosalinda G. Garcia
April 17, 2015 at 9:30 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
To San Benito News:
Thank you for placing my lengthy blog/post back dated April 6, 2015.
Rosalinda G. Garcia, B.A.
Texas Realtor
Praying for peace
April 17, 2015 at 8:28 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@taxpayer against fraud. Truth be told! Wouldn’t this constitute fraud in your case? Talk about wasting taxpayers money. If you/friends are spending your time looking out for people that visit with the superintendent Interesting you say that. Maybe TEA should be called. How can we expect the superintendent to have any confidentially/privacy with any employee or board member when your assuming things that you don’t know about. You need to tell you or your friends to stop wasting San Benito TAXPAYERS Money!
Great Point
April 16, 2015 at 1:07 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
That’s a great point. I’ve always wondered where they work because they sure do spend a lot of time at central office. We all know a few board members don’t work and the ones that do spend more time with the superintendent. Someone is paying their salary and that’s a shame they take advantage of their employer the way they do. That’s the reason our school district is the way it is because board members don’t let the superintendent do his job, their to busy micro managing who they hired… We the people are voting smart this time around, enough of this circus….
Rene F.
April 16, 2015 at 12:10 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Who are you kidding? At least Ms. R. Garcia uses her name. This once great Recognized district is sinking thanks to the board president in 2012, y. GONZLAES!
Rosalinda G. Garcia
April 12, 2015 at 9:10 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
SB Voters/Taxpayers:
On the Regular Board Meeting, Jan. 14, 2014, trustees approved overtime for the troubled managed care clinic. Yliana Gonzalez was president at the time, and Julian Huerta and June Aguilera were board members.
At no other time in 2014 was over time on the agenda prior to the 2014 election as far as my research findings.
There was also nothing on the agenda in 2014 approving an audit prior to the 2014 elections as far as my research findings.
There was nothing on the agenda in 2014 an instructional program being placed 3-4 times prior to elections as far as my research findings.
And last but not least, from what I have learned, you need two board members to place an item on agenda for discussion and approval.
On April 30, 2014, the discussion and possible action on approving the Entegral Solutions energy savings contract and financing with a price tag of over 10 million dollars was placed on the agenda. Yliana Gonzalez was board president at the time, Julian Huerta and June Aguilera were board members.
I am not 100% , I recall this was the time Fatima Huerta did not vote with YG, JA, or JH.
I stand to be corrected.
Thanks for reading my blog.
Rosalinda G. Garcia B.A.
Texas Realtor
taxpayer against fraud
April 14, 2015 at 9:35 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@ Rosalinda…Ignorance is bliss and you obviously fall into this bunch. Any one who’s well versed in education and its practices knows well enough that audits are conducted on a yearly basis. So to claim that audits have not occurred is simply absurd. Get your facts straight before posting your nonsense comments on the blogs.
Also, many of your ‘claims’ seem to lack facts. Have you attempted to speak to those you trash on the blogs like Yliana, Julian, Fatima, June? You’d probably get the ‘rest of the story’ if you weren’t so cowardly hiding behind your computer screen all the time.
Denny Crane, Jr.
April 14, 2015 at 12:48 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@taxpayer against fraud
You have a lot of nerve to assert that Rosalinda G. Garcia is cowardly hiding behind your computer screen all the time when, in fact, Rosalinda G. Garcia has proudly posted her comments utilizing her own name and not hiding behind the anonymity of a pseudo name like Taxpayer against fraud. If I remember correctly, she even posted her personal phone number.
If you have the counter-point or rest of the story please feel free to post it here.
“FREEDOM is just another word when there is nothing left to lose.”
Simple
April 15, 2015 at 8:58 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
It’s easy to say that Rosalinda doesn’t hide behind her computer screen because she doesn’t work for the district. Political retaliation has run ramped in our district for years, so don’t act ignorant to the anonymity. I applaud the people/voters for commenting at least and expressing their frustration. And @ taxpayer against fraud, you are correct, Rosalinda uses this avenue as a tool to discredit candidates she doesn’t support, but the community has come to realize the truth behind her madness. Misleading the people gets old and insulting! We are tired on this nonsense political antics and we will vote for a positive change.
It's Time !!!!
April 18, 2015 at 8:16 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The main problem is that the business manager got a contract before Limon stepped down. The financial situation is bad management and over sight by the business manager. That person is responsible for evaluating and prompting the board of financial issues with the district. But, since she’s a Tumberlinson supporter she is protected from accountability. But only in San Benito does this happen at the expense of our children’s resources. Vote smart and Tumberlinson candidates are not the answer, enough!!!!
Rosalinda G. Garcia
April 10, 2015 at 12:59 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
To: SB News Readers:
Fact: Past board members were in support of the energy savings package that would have cost over 10 million dollars. I was there. I know what I heard. This was presented 2-3 times at committee meetings and then placed on board agenda. The committee meetings occurred more or less in 2013 and 2014, and on board agenda in 2014 for vote and turned down. And this happened about the time the maintenance director was suspended. Interesting. Who else would have been suspended at taxpayers cost if the board would not have changed in May 2014?
The reason I did not use specific names is so my blog will not receive any complaints as like my previous lengthy blog and removed by the editor.
Thanks for reading my blog.
Rosalinda G. Garcia, B.A.
Texas Realtor
Tax Payer in San Benito
April 11, 2015 at 7:26 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@Rosalinda
Over the past few years there has been several red flags that have been ignored either by the than super or business manager. In 2014, your tax dollars paid for an audit that reviled bad hiring practices meaning over staffed and lack of fiscal responsibility, but because it was election time it was kept under wraps. She also for to mention, the board members, that have micro managed the district and hired all their family and friends for political favors and that’s proven with the staffing situation we have now. She slap forgot to mention, the $100’s of thousands of dollars in over time before the new super came on board. She slaps forgot to mention, the $1 million dollar instructional program was pushed and out on the agenda 3-4 times till finally it was passed six months ago. This program was never approved by staff nor research based to have proven to work anywhere else. By the way, the energy saving deal never passed and never cost the district any money so that point is mute. All the example above did cost the district millions of dollars. Why did she leave out crucial details because she one sided and uses this tactic to sway votes her way.. Voters do your homework just go on gossip and hear say.. Thank you for reading the truth….
Tax Payer 2 in San Benito
April 12, 2015 at 8:56 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@ Rosalinda
You mention suspended personnel in your comments. The problem with the suspended personnel is that it’s driven by the superintendent recommendation following investigations pertaining to personnel complaints. There’s a few law suites pending regarding a few present and past department heads, but once again she doesn’t mention that. Why because of her association politically and the board members she’s supported have been directly responsible to the misuse use of tax payer dollars as well as mico managing administration. As a district employee we want positive change so don’t always pay attention to this persons comments because there one sided..
taxpayer against fraud
April 14, 2015 at 9:42 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@ Rosalinda, you seem so adamant about trashing the current board which leaves me to wonder…’what’s in it for you?”
Could the answer lie in you benefitting in someway somehow through your ‘realty’ dealings with San Benito CISD? You don’t have any children in the district, so what’s REALLY in it for you?
Pepe Roni
April 14, 2015 at 1:05 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@taxpayer against fraud
Your ‘claims’ seem to lack facts.
Achitzur
April 10, 2015 at 8:19 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The responsible board members who placed the San Benito school district in financial ruin should be sued in a court of law and do jail time. San Benito has been my home for the past 25 years. It is a crooked city with elected officials abusing everything. They walk around and look at streets where their friends live, so they can pave the road and keep the friends happy. They should hire someone to do a study so the roads that are in need of repair are firstly addressed, and not where their friends live. I remember a Judge who stole money. Speaking of Judges, I have never lived in a city in which Judges are not graduates from a law school/attorney.
AS for the school district, employee morale is at its lowest. My friends who work at other school districts laugh at the pathetic San Benito CISD school board who placed us in this awful situation. What will get worse, is that everyone will be looking for jobs elsewhere, even if they are retained by the district after the lay offs. Who would want to work at SBCISD? The pay is awful, and nepotism abounds. At one school, the Interim principal has ruled with furor as a dean, and has embarrassed teachers screaming at them in front of their students.. Her husband walks around the school and gets paid to look in classroom windows. Her daughter works at the same school, and unlike other staff, said daughter comes and goes as she pleases with no consequences.
As for the city, it allowed a Wal-Mart to be built on property that is adjacent to very nice homes on a resaca. The trucks honking their horns all night long, the beeping of vehicles in reverse is maddening, the emergency doors are left open for hours and alarms are constantly going off, plastic bags get blown into the swimming pools and yards of the residents living adjacent to the said Wal-Mart, and the homes vibrate from the trucks that are delivering products 24/7. The Harlingen Walmart only allows deliveries MOnday through Friday during business hours, and no trucks on weekends. There are no homes behind this store and yet San Benito Walmart will not follow this same policy. We talked to the city officials who laughed at us and said the San Benito is the city of music and noise.
When we purchased our resaca home, our real estate agent – who is on the planning commission for San Benito – lied to us and said that empty piece of land would be for residential homes. She knew fair well that plans were underway to change the zoning to commercial, but she just wanted a sale. Four months after we purchased our home, the news broke that Walmart would be build in that empty field.
So my advice for anyone who is thinking about moving to San Benito, just don’t. It would be a huge mistake. Harlingen is attracting huge businesses while San Benito is living in the antiquated past. If I lose my job at the school district, I am selling my home and moving out of this awful, backward, and crooked city. I could go on and on but time does not permit me to do so.
PURO GAINS
April 10, 2015 at 11:50 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Achitzur, your comment was submitted at 8:19AM – GET BACK TO WORK!!!
I sure hope you are on the “These People Gotta Go” list submitted by the Super and HR on April 16. You are exactly what this school district does not need.
Achitzur
April 10, 2015 at 12:17 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I am at home today, thank you very much. I would not write messages while cleaning bathrooms at work.
vaya con dios
April 10, 2015 at 11:55 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
like the Super said, those that wanna leave, please do so…
ahí está la puerta abierta, vete!
Achitzur
April 10, 2015 at 1:17 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Sprechen di deutch?
Brian Powell
April 12, 2015 at 7:38 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Actually, it is, “Sprechen Sie deutsch?”
Beto
April 10, 2015 at 12:10 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi guys! I think this a post is just a as bad if not a worse than the Garcia lady post that got a taken away.
Go Hounds!
Ruth
April 9, 2015 at 10:34 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
This board hired not ONE but TWO interim superintendents. This board allowed for an investigation of Mr. Limon. This board let Mr. Limon stay home on PAY LEAVE-PAY Salary.
You ask “Who was the Board President running the show?” Guess? YGonzalez.
When you go to vote and you as SBCISD employees are trying to figure out how you are going to pay your car payment and house payment, just remember which current board members had the majority vote and created this HUGE MESS.
For those employees who will be out of a job on May 31, 2015, we say a prayer for you.
Juan
April 9, 2015 at 8:52 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I think what Marco says is right.
Isn’t it wise to get rid of the dead wood first.All of these “para-professionals”,that can’t even spell their title.Way too many security people wandering around,looking from sometime to do / some place to hide.Way too many people to cut the grass,even when it doesn’t need cutting.Do the teachers really need all the teachers aides they have ? Would be nice,but remember we’re in dire straits,something has to give,this will also weed out those teachers that are just in it for a pay check,vs. those with the serious desire to instruct,dead wood,let them go.
So,there are plenty of ways to reduce overhead,without hurting the educational quality.
This is public education,not a private job corps program,run it like that and see the changes.
PURO GAINS
April 9, 2015 at 7:55 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
It seems like some people are afraid of the truth.
Santiago
April 9, 2015 at 4:45 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The problems of the school district started a long time ago. Right around when the last permanent superintendent was hired. The effects of his hiring were not felt until about 3 or 4 years after he took over. This is when I started to write about what was happening and which way the district was heading. But a lot of people buried their heads in the sand. Then things got worst. But because the Superintendent and the School Board was passing out pies and a lot of people started waiting for their piece. Now the ship is about to sink and people are thinking how to take out the bad elements of Mr Limon welfare philosophy. Educating our students was and is still an afterthought of this community. Now Mr. Marc Puig is showing you the truth and fixing it is not going to be easy. Here’s what I know about this community and its employees. As soon as Mr. Puig releases the list and lays off employees. The laid off and their friends and family will begin the back stabbing until they oust Mr. Puig. Do not be scared of the people who say something. Be scared of the people who say nothing. This community will back stab and crucify anyone who tries to adjust their moral compass. Things that are “wrong” are accommodated to being “right” in their minds.
Marco
April 9, 2015 at 2:47 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
If a reduction in force is inevitable; start with these folks first before a single teacher is given their walking papers: directors, specialists, principals and vice-principals. From my twenty-six years in the classroom; I have observed these employees as the highest paid/least essential personnel in a public school followed by athletic coaches. Teachers are the backbone of the public school.
Juan
April 8, 2015 at 8:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
As a taxpayer,I don’t really care at all over the benefit package the people that work for the school system get or have,The school system is to educate the students,not to provide cheap insurance plans for those that work there.If those people employed by the district are not happy with their insurance package,fine go try and get a job at another school district.Will this affect the quality of instruction,I seriously doubt it,I know from friends that this is perhaps the easiest district to get a job with,apparently their requirements are well below other state districts.
There is an abundance of blame here,enough to go around to all the previous administrators,the boards,and all the people we’re paying to do this.You people all have dropped the ball,but we can settle that later,for now,for once make some rational decisions,and think them out.This shouldn’t be hard because you’ve basically worked your way into a box.Do you want the state to come and take the district over,because the board is not capable of adult decisions,I think not ,but that’s what people from outside are saying.Enough of this jobs for friends,or relatives,this wouldn’t fly in private industry,which is why we have so many skaters here in public education.
Can you blame concerned parents for removing their children,and putting them in private schools,you people are working yourselves out of a job.Dr.Puig,get rid of all you need to,then add another 25% to that number,watch how fast the performance of those retained improve.
Jas Hernandez
April 8, 2015 at 5:58 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Give ME a break! I can bet that Leal, Medrano, and Cruz were the NAY vote on all those bad decisions Aguilera, Yliana, Julian AND Fatima Huerta voted in favor of. Especially, the change of insurance agent, the primary reason the district is in the horrible situation it’s in.
Tax Payer in San Benito
April 9, 2015 at 3:54 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
That’s the problem, there is no agent for the health insurance. Your right, that’s the reason why this insurance mess have escalated to this point because once again there is no accountability.. By the way, Oscar, Ana, Leal and Padilla voted on that smart move. That was a multi million dollar mistake people.. Elections can’t come fast enough and the right people will be elected!!!!
Rosalinda G. Garcia
April 8, 2015 at 3:21 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
SB News Readers/Voters:
I noticed that my lengthy blog had been removed so I called SB News to inquire. The editor told me that it had been removed because there were a lot of complaints and I had also used a lot of specific names that could be slandering due to opinions.
The facts that I stated come from my information that I have from attending school board meetings and info that I read in the SB News and VMS.
I am not upset with the SB News at all; its their paper.
I will blog again real soon; for now I have to go campaign!
Thanks for reading my blog.
Rosalinda G. Garcia, B.A.
Texas Realtor
Tax Payer in San Benito
April 9, 2015 at 10:22 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@ Rosalinda,
I applaud the Editor to cleaning up the mess that’s blogged on SBNews. In reality, I don’t pay much attention to the comments blogged on the SBNews because it’s one side, totally. It’s sad that political fractions use this method of ” mud slinging” to give their candidate a political edge………………
Ridiculous
April 9, 2015 at 11:44 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I applaud the editor for doing this. People use this venue to shame each other instead of trying to get this city to prosper. Rosalinda, you should continue to campaign and keep away from the blogs, truth or fabrication, no one cares to hear from you!
Juan Ocha
April 9, 2015 at 12:05 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
“Ridiculous” comment should be removed because it is not true. I care to hear from Rosalinda and I consider this comment to be slandering.
Ridiculous
April 9, 2015 at 2:45 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Then, if the editor chooses to do so, he can remove my comment.
Buzzing Bee
April 8, 2015 at 2:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
According to the buzzing bee, administrators are having meetings with those they oversee (as stated in Dr. Puig’s Super Talks video) in regard to the current SBCISD financial crisis (over staffing, insurance, raise, etc)…
This is a great opportunity to hear from school district employees. Chime in. Anonymity – at your discretion of course. Your opinion matters.
This is an even greater opportunity to hear from those SBCISD Board Members seeking re-election and those running to become a board member. Your ideas, thoughts, and POA’s would be beneficial to voters, parents, students, community, etc…
J educator
April 8, 2015 at 10:39 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I thought about being a candidate for the school board. I have been an educator for over 25 years in a neighboring school district. My father taught in San Benito for over 42 years. I have a degree in business administration, finance, school leadership, and have my principal’s certification. I must agree with most you above, most of the board members do not have the ability or skills to manage a school district. The main priority should be the children of San Bentio CISD. It is sad, when you have a principal on the school board, who should be an effective leader, yet her recent decisions have effected the future of the children and employees of San Benito CISD. I believe other reductions can take place rather than eliminating too many employees. Eliminating or reducing funds to programs that are not benefiting the school district, the reduction in energy sources, reduction in district personal trips, banquets, and luxury expenses. Management of all the school’s energy, supplies, and operating expenses. I know my dad would be disappointed that his beloved school district is laying off teachers at the expense of an incompetent school board. I am thinking about it, perhaps I may apply, many have encourage me, and I know a lot of people, with excellent resources.
PURO GAINS
April 8, 2015 at 2:06 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The best thing that can happen to the SBCISD and its students is that TEA steps in and takes over. They aren’t biased to anybody and don’t dance around all the politics that the SBCISD and San Benito community have submerged themselves in over the years.
How often are other big city school districts in the media/read the way the SBCISD has been over the past several years. Now, I’m not saying that politics doesn’t exist in other school districts. But, there is a reason San Benito CISD is in the media constantly and others aren’t. The leaders and politicos can do what they want, but even that they can’t seem to do right. Team T, Team Chuy, Team Yliana, you name it, left side, right side, good side, bad side – all of ’em!
TEA would be doing the city/school district/community a favor.
Robert
April 7, 2015 at 9:51 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
*What is most unfair is the lack of a quality education that will occur next year.
*With all those first year teachers gone, there will be more students in each class from kindergarten to senior year courses.
*The only ones to blame for this mess are the Fantastic Four who RAN the district… and every one in town knows who they are.
*Remember, Mr. Leal, Mr. Medrano and Ms. Cruz continually voted RIGHT during those years. Don’t believe me… well just look up the SBCISD videos and Board Minutes.
*Two members running for re-election voted against the superintendent, who is SCHEDULED TO GET A $5,000 PAY RAISE IN JUNE, are exactly the ones who hired the TWO interim superintendents who did their work and paid them nicely!
*Watch the SBCISD videos.
*** MOST IMPORTANTLY – SHAME on All those board members who did not accept Dr. Puig’s recommendation.
******Vote Smart SB! My family will for sure.
PURO GAINS
April 7, 2015 at 1:15 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
With cuts around the corner, I hope the board members responsible for all this mess have their day of reckoning. They deserve to be held accountable for all this. TEA and state/US officials need to come down hard on them. It is not fair/right/ethical for all the employees and students to be affected by all this and the board members are not.
Triple P
April 7, 2015 at 10:04 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
“You wanna go to war, I’ll take you to war.” -Scarface
Peggy
April 6, 2015 at 10:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I do not see how one can argue with the LENGTHLY and very SPECIFIC list that Rosalind has presented. Others make vague claims of previous board members doing this or that, but I cannot see how one can argue with FACTS as those. (And before anyone chimes in, I do not know Rosalinds or any past or previous board member – I’m just commenting on information being presented.)
Why is this the only recent mention of that infamous letter being brought up? Why is YG so “invested” in this managed care plan? As we used to say, “things that make you go hmmmmmm”
SBEducator
April 6, 2015 at 9:44 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
@ Tired Voter
If you have been keeping up with the super talks you can see that the problems began in the last 2-3years with the budget. The super has gone back for years and the problems occurred when Yliana Gonzalez was board president. It is fact. It has nothing to do with previous boards. I have seen each of his super talks and even attended the financial meeting that occurred during spring break. When Yliana was not board president we had a healthy budget and where fine with staffing. I invite you to watch the super talk videos.
March 5, 2015
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1K_bheSgzc0
March 25, 2015
concerned employee
April 6, 2015 at 9:21 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
To those of you criticizing the board on their decision to reject the TRS plan shame on you. You all must not know all the facts. You say that we need to support Dr. Puig and his quick fix but want you all don’t realize is that TRS is no quick fix. Once the district signs up with this insurance we can NEVER leave it. For an employee with 1 dependwnt we are going to have to pay upwards of $600 a month with the TRS insurance. So that 15% raise is basically going to offset because we are going to have to pay our insurance. Also the email you all speak of unless you read the fine print and between the lines you are crazy if you chose to go wth TRS for a 15% raise. The 15% would only be for teachers and to my understanding it would be 15% separated into increments over a few years. I would rather get no raise then to see the layoff of over 100 employees. I applaud Dr. Puig for coming in and laying down the hammer. He is all business and has the students best interest in mind and that’s what this district needed. However as an employee with 3 dependents I think that TRS insurance is a big mistake. I would basically be working just to pay insurance. There has to be a better alternative.
Jas Hernandez
April 6, 2015 at 6:40 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Your comment is RIDICULOUS! Dr. Puig stated in Super Talks that between the 2012-2103 and 2013-2014 school years 100 people were hired even after school enrollment was down 186. Any smart voter will know that Joe G. was not on the board those years AND the board had given themselves authority to hire as they please. Which of the current incumbents were on the board those years?! YLIANA AND FATIMA! So, say all you want and name-call all you want, but the facts will say different.
give me a break
April 8, 2015 at 2:12 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Lets not forget Anna Cruz was elected in 2012 and Oscar Medrano and Hector Leal were also on the board as well. Im not saying you are right or wrong but If you are gonna call out 1 step up to the plate and call them all out!
taxpayer against fraud
April 14, 2015 at 9:39 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Interesting you say that. I agree.
Lately, Anna Cruz has been adamant about saying how too much of our money has been wastefully spent on health insurance. Truth be told that she is wastefully spending Brownsville ISD’s taxpayer dollars when it is assumed she should be working but instead is in the San Benito superintendent’s office handling political matters. Wouldn’t this constitute fraud? A TEA call is waiting to happen especially if she’s getting a salary on brownsville taxpayer dollars and NOT performing her duties as expected. How can we expect her to protect our taxpayer dollars?!?! Things that make you go ‘hmmmm’.
Elizabeth
April 16, 2015 at 11:18 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
They say the devil never sleeps. When will the School District ever progress with people spreading lies like this one. The funniest thing is that you assume that she works for Brownsville ISD? Wait! things that make YOU go hmmmmm?
SMH
April 18, 2015 at 9:23 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Rumors? Quite the contrary. Truth is Anna Cruz works for Brownsville ISD under the direction of UT. No need to go hmmm when the facts speak for themselves. Why else would she be ‘housed’ in Brownsville ISD’s facilities? Doubt that its for her ‘polite’ mannerisms’….
Cup of TEA
April 18, 2015 at 9:04 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Its seems like a lot more people nowadays mention contacting TEA but actually don’t or don’t do enough to get something done/fixed/changed…
Done!
April 19, 2015 at 8:33 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
When Joe G was on the board he pushed to give Limon the dual title of super and HR director, this would allow Limon to hire people ( hourly people ) with out board approval. That’s would be considered serving your community for self gain and that’s what he did for years. Joe G doe not belong back in the school board yliana or Fatima would do a much better job voters…
Too funny!
April 23, 2015 at 8:06 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
We all know what Yliana and Fatima can do. No Thanks!
FACTUALLY SPEAKING
April 29, 2015 at 12:14 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The facts are this: Our school board has seven seats for a reason; to have seven independent thinking minds working towards one goal. To make decisions for the district that will ensure the well-being of its students and faculty, while holding the superintendent accountable. If board members muddy accountability by trying to involve themselves in management functions, then they will not be able to effectively hold the system and mainly the superintendent accountable for results.
Now when you have a board with members who are hijacking the district because they are working together, and manipulating the system for their own personal agendas… who then, will hold them accountable?? Our current board is already at a majority vote with Tumberlinson’s Klan: Medrano, Cruz, Padilla, Mendez, and Leal. If Michael Vargas, Ana Cruz, and Joe G. Gonzalez win in this election, then the entire board will consist of people who are supported by Mr. & Mrs. “T”; they will be calling the shots, and who is going to hold them accountable? No one! They will have full reign to do what they wish with the district, which means more decisions like: choosing to seal Antonio Limon’s investigation findings, instead of being transparent with us citizens and holding Mr. Limon accountable. The very fact that the record was sealed proves that they are covering something up. I feel that if so much of our tax dollars were spent on this investigation, then we deserve to know exactly what was found.
Another thing is, why did the current board (who’s majority are Tumberlinson’s people) vote for the UT Health Program Pushed by Ana Cruz and Angel Mendez knowing very well the dire financial situation the district was in!! What did the Tumberlinsons and the 4 majority board members get out of this 800,000.00 deal, because our students certainly have not benefitted from it; this program has been nothing more than a financial burden on our district!!
If you ask me, any one group who is willing to go to such lengths to have full majority must have something to gain, just what are they afraid of losing?? Tumberlinson’s people are power hungry individuals who hire and promote only those who are on their side; they want to dictate who gets to move up and who doesn’t, instead of basing positions on experience and abilities. The over staffing problem the district is facing is a direct result of Antonio Limon doing this for years. This is something that any employee of the district should be aware of, because voting for candidates supported by Mr. & Mrs. “T” will get you just that.
It shouldn’t be about sides, it should be about us the voters making well informed decisions about the candidates, and being aware of the candidate’s associations so that we can vote for a board that is balanced, and not for one side or the other. We have several candidates running as independents: Vote for Orlando Lopez instead of Ana Cruz, who is benefiting from the district by supporting the $800,000.00 untested UT Health Program which has ties through her job with Brownsville ISD. Vote for Rene Salinas instead of Michael Vargas, whose job with Idea schools poses a huge conflict of interest to our district. Vote for Yliana Gonzales instead of Joe G. Gonzales, who has already shown us what he is capable of from his previous service on the school board; he was voted out, remember? Not Fatima Huerta, because she has not proven to us that she has a voice or is an effective leader.
seinfeld
April 30, 2015 at 12:33 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
“it’s not a lie if you believe it.” – george costanza
francisco
April 30, 2015 at 12:46 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
pfff…this guy’s lost his mind
PPP
May 1, 2015 at 1:06 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
RE: FACTUALLY SPEAKING
“Vote for Rene Salinas instead of Michael Vargas, whose job with Idea schools poses a huge conflict of interest to our district. Vote for Yliana Gonzales instead of Joe G. Gonzales, who has already shown us what he is capable of from his previous service on the school board; he was voted out, remember? Not Fatima Huerta, because she has not proven to us that she has a voice or is an effective leader.”
1a) How is Michael Vargas working for IDEA a huge conflict of interest?
1b) If it is indeed a huge conflict of interest, isn’t Yliana Gonzales working for LFCISD a huger conflict of interest since LFCISD is more of an opponent (according to Dr. Puig’s stats) than IDEA is?
2a) How has Fatima Huerta not proven that she has a voice or is an effective leader?
2b) having a voice is one thing, but I question how have any of the current board members, not just Fatima Huerta, proven to be effective leaders, as it pertains to the SBCISD?
FACTUALLY SPEAKING
May 4, 2015 at 11:48 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
PPP
In response to your questions:
1a.) Part of Mike Vargas’s job as an assistant principal with Idea Schools is the recruitment of students into Idea, since we have an Idea School right here in San Benito our school district has suffered, because it has already lost many students to this charter school (which is not part of SBCISD). As a result, our district has lost precious state and government funding for each student that has left our district to attend Idea. How can someone (no matter their qualifications) work for a school whose job is to take away precious SBCISD students, and then want to come and be a decision-maker for SBCISD??? NOT!! This is defined as a CONFLICT OF INTEREST!
1b.) Don’t be silly, Many board members have served on the board and also worked at other surrounding districts, and “no” this does not apply as a conflict of interest; if so Ana Cruz would be just as guilty…Reason being is Brownsville school district is in Brownsville and Los Fresnos School District is in Los Fresnos, now Idea’s School District is located right here in San Benito… it is a charter school… it is considered a rivalry school to our district. So NO, Yliana working for LF Isn’t a conflict like Mike Vargas.
I believe Dr. Puig was referring to LFCISD being more of an opponent academically, not because they are taking our students away…Yes, if a family moved to Los Fresnos or Harlingen then of course we would lose them.
2a.) In the school board meetings I have attended I’ve never seen Fatima Huerta speak, or raise a question, or challenge something… she may have good intentions for our students and district, but like they say, “It is actions that get you somewhere, not good intentions. She had not proven to be an effective leader; a good follower maybe….
2b.) No one school board member is perfect; yes, they have all made their fair share of mistakes, but what needs to be seen are board members who do their homework, know their policies, who want to work together, and are not afraid to speak up when they see those policies being violated. This is how you hold your Leaders accountable. It is a hard job, and a board member may not always popular because of this.
Joe G. Gonzales must not be brought back as a school board member, period! I recall his days on the board, and he had a “what’s in it for me” approach to making decisions for our precious children… SBCISD needs a board member who is truly concerned with making those tough decisions that need to be made for our children and district, and not worried about the next Cowboys game he will be attending…..Been There Done That…No Thank You!!
Note: For the record, I am NOT Yliana, I am a very concerned citizen, parent, and voter, and I have a huge problem with the Tumberlinson’s wanting to have total board control…
private
May 6, 2015 at 2:50 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Yliana should get pointers from LFCISD since their district seems to be running very well both financially and academically.
You want the truth?
May 1, 2015 at 4:01 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Yliana Gonzales, is that you? It appears that somebody is in panic mode!
Time to “turn out the lights”, the party is almost over my friend!
M. Ramirez
April 6, 2015 at 6:23 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Cc: Don’t forget those that voted with her all these years, including FATIMA HUERTA!
Rosalinda G. Garcia
April 6, 2015 at 4:21 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
SB Voters/Readers:
Remember, it was not too long ago that Yliana Gonzalez and other former board members were pushing for the disastrous energy plan (Entegral Solutions) with a price tag of over 10 million dollars.
It was not too long ago that Yliana Gonzalez and other former school board members voted for the purchase of 385 computer tablets at a cost of $98,000.00 from a former board member’s father printing business.
It was not too long ago that Yliana Gonzalez and other former board members fired highly recommended school attny. O’Hanalon and hired 3 attnys.. A school attny.; a special ed. attny. and another attny. to investigate Mr. Antonio Limon suspension.
And it was not too long ago that Yliana Gonzalez, acting as board president, and other former board members, fired O-Hanalon due to satisfaction, yet hired him back to finish litigation cases. They actually had 4 attnys. being paid!
It was not too long ago that Yliana Gonzalez and other former board members hired an attny. and paid him $150.00 an hour to conduct an investigation into Mr. Limon. The Houston-based law firm Guerra and Farah PLLC were hired in 2013 and concluded final findings in May 2014 (appx.) only to report no credible findings to fire Mr. Limon?
It was not too long ago that Interim Supt.( hired by Yliana Gonzalez and former board members) gave Band Booster Club an ultimatum. Cooperate with Limon probe or face suspension from school functions.
It was not too long ago that Yliana Gonzalez, acting as board president, sent out a letter terminating insurance companies without board approval. TEA had to intervine, to which Ms. Gonzalez re-tracted the infamous letter that carried Mr. Limon’s un-authorized signature.
And it was not too long ago that an insurance coordinator was terminated by Mr. Limon for admitting her role in the insurance letter with his name and signature.
And it was not too long ago that Glen Hylller, insurance consultant , was terminated. His consultant services cost the district over $82,000.00 in 2013.
And it was not too long ago, that a board member voted against the manage health plan. Richard Garza, whose company ISD Managed Care Services ran the clinic that helped administer the managed care plan and also wanted to expand the weekly operations by 15 hrs. costing another $29,000.00 a year.
And it was not too long ago that ISD Managed Care Services had a federal tax lien issued; giving concern to services of clinic being delivered.
And it was not too long ago, that Yliana Gonzalez, acting as board president, repeatedly had “no comment” for the media/voters/taxpayers.
And it was not too long ago that Board Member Anna Cruz strongly voted against the managed care plan. As a matter of fact, I believe it was in January of 2014. She voiced a serious concern over the district’s managed care plan.
And it was not too long ago, that according to records, enrollment has gone down, and hiring has gone up in the last two school years.
And it was not too long ago, that the following school board members were elected: Huerta and Huerta, Aguilera, and along with Yliana Gonzalez; you know the rest of the story. Unfortunately.
Rosalinda G. Garcia; B.A.
Texas Realtor
Vivan
April 7, 2015 at 9:52 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Rosalinda,
Thank you for the excellent points.
Reform San Benito
April 17, 2015 at 10:29 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Editor,
Thank you for reposting this insightful comment.
Joan
April 5, 2015 at 2:40 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Great points Juan. Why after all of the hoopla in their statewide search and them all agreeing on his being the best candidate for position, now they refuse to take his recommendation, and the recommendation of expert consultant, to move away from this disastrous health care plan and move forward with something, actually right now the only thing, that makes financial sense for district. Those that voted against new health care plan, by doing so, voted to instead cause the loss of hundreds of people to lose their jobs and for those they are lucky enough to not be on the chopping block to remain in one of the lowest paying districts in the valley. The reasons for voting against the alternative health plan are beyond weak when looking at what the alternative is. We can only begin to assume what else might be leading to the decision making process of this five board members, because it most obviously is NOT what is in best interest of this district’s children.
And kudos to supt for sending out survey to staff – let their voice be heard, so at least that supposed excuse of “it is not what the staff want, we are only voting based on what they want” can be shut down if this is brought up again
Juan
April 4, 2015 at 7:56 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I’m sure,if it is indeed left up to Dr.Puig that the teachers that educate the students will be the last on the list to be terminated.All the other nose-pickers I see running around hiding,watching the clock are those that are unnecessary.But like old Tony said,his job was to give jobs to the city of San Benito.the largest employer in the city,what’s it called the patron system,this has nothing to do with the education of the students,its giving jobs to the moms and dads of the students.And a whole lot of those jobs are totally useless.So lets see if Dr. Puig can get rid of those jobs and leave the jobs that pertain to educating the students,could be a real challenge.
This board never fails to amaze me with their choices and selections,they spend money that they don’t have in finding a new superintendent,make a big deal out of it,and then refuse to listen to his advice,my I’m sure he feels most welcome in the Resaca City.The board really needs to start being more careful using these federal monies,Using federal tax payers monies in an improper manner,d/b/a,stealing is a federal crime,punishable by time in a federal detention facility.