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Sunday, October 02, 2016
School Closed Today: Delmar Middle & High 9-26-16
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173 comments:
I don't understand this action either. It appears to me just an excuse to get out of work , or so called work. I do not give this decision due respect , however I do give the custodian respect , most didn't even know the person.
A typical socialist decision. Of course Delmar as a lot o be desired.
The staff has to use a sick day or desk work. Not happy about this. This could have easily been done after school hours. But rip
Is this a decision of the Wicomico County BOE or the Delmar School District?
As a member of the Delmar School System I for one back this decision 100%. This is what makes Delmar the best. We are a FAMILY! This man was someone who gave so much to the School. I thank the Delmar School District for this decision and am PROUD to be a Wildcat. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends.
The custodian was a long time employee that was deeply loved and will be sorely missed by staff as well as students. This action is what sets Delmar apart from other areas. It has a sense of community, a thing that seems to have been long lost in some areas. Wildcat pride is a very true thing and extends well past just the school districts alumni. I applaud the school district taking the day to remember a long time employee and allowing everyone a day to give respects and grieve. I would like to think that most employers would value their people in the same way. But I am sure that most of the people that troll this site would rather the deceased die and hold their funeral at a more convenient time for them.
The majority of the people who troll this site are looking to vilify anything and everyone. The word respect is not in their vocabulary. 6:56 and 7:08 you are right on point saying Delmar is family, making it a caring community. Delmar supports its school system in all ways possible. Closing the Delmar schools today for the service of a beloved custodian explains what love and respect is.
I work for the state. We had a member of our staff die of cancer. We didn't shutdown the office. Instead we used our personal and lunch time to attend her viewing and funeral and then returned back to the office.
Good Job Delmar, Go Wildcats
Thank you to Delmar School System. R.I.P
Is the JV football game still on today at Delmar 4:pm?
I don't understand.
Maybe I'm missing the point here, but wouldn't it have been a much greater honor to gather the staff and students in an assembly hall and have some sort of service - during school hours - for about an hour or so to honor this gentleman?
I think a wonderful opportunity to teach the students about life, work ethic, love, coping with a crisis, etc., has been missed by not having a general assembly.
I think the point of this is to question why the family didn't make arrangements that wouldn't inconvenience hundreds of families. While it is unfortunate this happened, they are not family.
Delmar IS a very different school.
In a GOOD way.
That custodian saw two of my kids after school and gave them a ride home.
It's a close knit school and the rest of the school systems in this area WISH they had the cohesiveness and scholastic record of Delmar schools.
Quit hating on compassion, empathy, and togetherness.
Yes, it was worth it to give the school a day off. The man wasn't just a custodian (pretentious much?), he was part of our family and a friend.
This is not a Wicomico County BOE decision because Delmar Middle and High are under the Delaware school system. Only the elementary is under Wicomico County because it is in Maryland.
They could have had it on a Saturday like Mardela Middle and High are doing this Saturday for a well respected Assistant Principal that passed away within the last two weeks.
Everyone could attend. RIP sir
To close an entire district is odd to say the least. Families could have made arrangements for their children to attend if they wanted to. Employees could have also made their own arrangements to attend, there are subs that could have worked during their absence.
I hope this does NOT become the new norm.
This is exactly what sets Delmar apart! Unless you are part of the community or have been you may not understand and that is ok! Delmar not only supports one another but they also grieve together! If you can't find the compassion to understand or support the decision made that is ok too. However instead of everyone feeling the need to voice their disapproval why not take a moment to pray for this mans family and the many many people affected by his untimely death. RIP
So will all the children and staff attend the services? Probably not... how does it honor this man to have kids sitting with a babysitter or watching Tv all day because there is no school? How does that honor his legacy?
How long does a funeral take? Couldn't teachers have been at school from 8am to 10am - then take a bus to the funeral, and be back around noon? From 10am to noon - the kids could have been watching a movie in the gym and auditorium (plus there's a bunch of lunch period in there)
They could have voted who to go and who to stay, as long as 1 out of every 4 or so stayed behind, or even if a few parent volunteers came in, they'd been fine and not missed an entire day to be made up.
Makes no sense to me!
With all that is wrong on the eastern shore, THIS is what you pick to be the thing to rally around and complain about? SMH. You people deserve every second of the misery known as the slower lower.
May just be what this country needs to heal. R-E-S-P-E-C-T!
Thank you for the dedicated service sir...R.I.P
Also, thank you Delmar for this decision.
I don't have any relationship with Delmar, but do know they have had a great reputation for many years. This shows way they are the leader.
SMH at the decision. I understand the idea and thought behind the decision. Do not think it was the correct one, but it is done. Let us move on!
DELMAR seems to be different for sure. All this talk about their respect but not one mention of just who the deceased was. Most probably don't even know the person's name.
The funeral is being held at the school to accommodate the family, friends and co-workers who will be attending. And...just so you know, Delmar will STILL have their school year wrapped up and done by the time Wicomico County schools close for the summer and will have done so with no waivers.
Anonymous Anonymous said...
I don't understand this action either. It appears to me just an excuse to get out of work , or so called work. I do not give this decision due respect , however I do give the custodian respect , most didn't even know the person.
A typical socialist decision. Of course Delmar as a lot o be desired.
What a joke, so called work. Get a life.
I am a Delmar parent, and although it is a sad event, disagree with this decision. A whole day off of school for a funeral? If this is what must be done, how about an afternoon service and make it a half day. Just seems that any opportunity to close school is taken these days.
will the students have to make this day up?
Really??? You have nothing else to comment about, other than Delmar MS/HS closing the school for the day for a funeral of one of their own? Yes, they could have done it in the evening. Yes, they could have done it on the weekend. Yes, they could had voted who could go and who could not go. But they did not, they chose to honor Mickey at his place of employment during the day, a school day! Delmar is a great school district and a community that comes together when there is a need. I support their decision and am impressed that they offered the school to honor Mickey. My thoughts and prayers being sent to his family as they lay him to rest today.
How are the people being served by closing school? Answer: they are not being served.
I highly doubt the man who passed away would agree that closing school and using his death as the reason is the correct way to honor him.
The decision is hypocritical on many levels.
Do we pay for our children's education with our taxes? Yes we do.
Do we pay teachers, administrators and BOE employees with out taxes? Yes we do.
Again how is this serving the tax payers?
They are taking the entire day off on the taxpayers dollar. I'll bet most of the kids don't even attend the funeral!!!
The funeral could have been held in the evening. And grave side could have been the following day for those who could have attended. There was no need to disrupt school.
This is EXACTLY what makes Delmar the best school around. Salisbury people will never get it. And that's why your schools are an absolute joke... just like Salisbury. This teaches kids the value of a human life. To celebrate the good people of the world who deserve to be celebrated. All you negative nerds ask yourself. .. who would take off work to come to YOUR funeral? Well done Delmar school district. This is why people from Salisbury, Laurel, Seaford and even Bridgeville bring their kids to our district.
Being a Delmar Alumni, I support their decision 110%. Apparently some of you people have never experienced death and how much it affects people in different ways. If it was snowing or there was fog this morning you would have expected the school to be closed but because someone died, it's not a big deal and the day should go on without notice. And as far as the whole "our tax dollars are paying for this" shit, you're damn right they are and you should be greatful that those employees choose to educate your children, hopefully they're not assholes like some of you. If you are one of the people who have an issue with Delmar closing for ONE day to pay respects to a long time employee, family member, and friend to many; then you are what's wrong with society.
We are talking about a JANITOR...,a JANITOR. Shutting down an entire school for a funeral. Wow.
Sadly, family will read these comments as well. I hope they don't feel the value of their loved one's life has been minimized by these comments. The people who REALLY MATTER, those with children attending this school don't have a problem with it, WHY SHOULD YOU! You loser trash should just stay in Salisbury where NO ONE's LIFE has value!
But some how we still come out on top for academics being the days we miss. And let's not complain about paying taxes when it's something every adult does. And being a delmar student, Mickey has been there since before I was in 6th grade, and I'm a senior now. We're a small group of people and everyone knows everyone, and having someone around for that long and getting use to talking to them and seeing them every day, has actually affected the community more than you would think. Let's stop being cold hearted, and put aside that "you pay taxes" just like everyone else, and realize that delmar has suffered a loss, within such a close knit community.
The Delmar School District does not and never would dictate to the grieving family of our long time dedicated employee Mickie Wilkins what time or where the service should be held. As our Wildcat Family always does we accomodated their wishes to lay to rest their loved one, our colleague and for many of us true friend. We strongly felt that it was a small measure of respect to a person that gave 19 years of dedicated service to the staff,students,and this facility. We have been and will remain a family in spite of the criticism and negativity towards us and our community.
"Being a Delmar alumni" you should have been taught that it is physically impossible to support something. 110%. It truly isn't possible. Maybe you should go back to school and learn that. SMH
Amen from this staff member too. It's a Delmar thing, you wouldnt understand.
You come out on top for academics IN DELAWARE!! What, are there like, 4 schools in the state that you are competing against? Delaware is a cute little state but don't get full of yourselves Maryland has counties that are larger than your entire state.
Good job Delmar!!! No doubt he was well known by the students as well as School staff!!! Not an issue, most parents just use the school systems as babysitters anyway....suck it up!!!
How do you "come out on top for academics" with your run on sentences? Must be a "participation" award.
Most must be there because when I rode by the line to get in was out the door and down the sidewalk!
A JANITOR WHO IMPACTED MORE LIVES THAN YOU EVER COULD! Why are minimizing someone's life based on a title? A person is a person no matter what job they pursue. Speaking of which, shouldn't you be working right now instead of spending your work hours being a bitter human being and spreading your negativity in matters that do not involve you?
A senior who claims they are "on top for academics" starting sentences with the word "and". Poor grammar. Incorrect punctuation. I have reread the first sentence 8 times and still don't understand what you are trying to say. "But somehow we still come out on top for academics being the days we miss". What in the heck are you trying to say?
Amen too!
I highly enjoy the fragments you included in your argument about grammar.
We are 1 huge family. If you are a graduate from 1950 to 2015 we all stand as 1 ! Rip God bless his family
You act as if Delmar is a huge district and this is just what we do here in Delmar once a a wildcat your always a wildcat and that's why Delmar is the most unique and well respected districts because all of us our family there
Who are you to even tell someone what's possible and what's not?
You wrote 5 rambling incoherent sentences while using the word "and" 9 times. Hardly my expectation for "top for academics."
It's not part of wicomico county
Um, ilogic and science have proven that it is impossible to support something 110%. A human being can only give 100%. You cannot give more than 100%. I can't believe I have to explain this to you. Must be a Delmar graduate
I am disgusted with some of these comments! Is it any concern of anyone from Salisbury or surrounding areas what Delmar School District does! And the people that are making comments to the senior, shame on you, he/she is a child and is standing up for his/her school! Each and every one of you should be embarrassed by your negative comments! If you don't have anything positive to say, maybe you should speak! I respect the families and school boards decision! It will not hurt the kids education missing one day!
Your maximum output is 100%. You cannot give more than your maximum output. Science dictates that. Not me.
Um, I'm not the one on here spouting off about my academic achievements.
I am disgusted by the comments above, especially the ones to the senior! He/She is a child and is defending his/her school district and you are responding the way you are! You should be ashamed of yourselves! The decision of the family and school district does not affect anyone in Salisbury or the surrounding area and it will not have an impact on the children's education missing one day! And about tax payers money, really, if you don't live in Delmar, your money isn't going to Delmar School District, so mind your business! I have never seen so much rudeness and disrespect in one blog!
Some of you people are a complete joke. Delmar closed the school not just for the funeral but to also honor the man. I try to tell people from other towns/cities that Delmar is a special place but many don't understand. This is just another example why I love my town. We are all ONE. We are all family. If one suffers we all suffer. We come together in times of need. It's sad you people see a school is closed and all you can think of is they did it to get out of work. It's pathetic. Delmar is the best school and community in this area. RIP Mickey.
It's clear nobody who hasn't been part of this "delmar family" would never understand but I've been there. I praise them for this decision and I'm certain it speaks volumes for the deceased family. When I was part of this special "family" one of my children battled childhood cancer and the school went way beyond what was required. They provided groceries gas cards paid electric bills etc. Don't be so quick to judge. There couldn't possibly be a school this wonderful anywhere
Nobody who has never been a part of this wonderful delmar family would understand. I admire what they are doing and I'm certain it speaks volumes for the deceased family. I have been a part of this family. At that time one of my children battled childhood cancer and the school went far and beyond what they were required. They bought us groceries, bought gas cards for hospital travel, paid electric bills etc. Don't be so quick to judge. There couldn't possibly be a school like this anywhere. I love you delmar!
As a graduate of Delmar, I, along with everyone else I know who either works or attends Delmar, completely back this decision. This is a man who has worked at Delmar since 1998. He has met so many staff members, students, families, and has touched each and every single one of them. The school is closing out of respect. But just like everyone before me has said, it's a Delmar thing. You wouldn't understand. I'm proud to be a Wildcat!
Janitors lives are not less important than anyone elses!
It's clear nobody who hasn't been part of this "delmar family" would never understand but I've been there. I praise them for this decision and I'm certain it speaks volumes for the deceased family. When I was part of this special "family" one of my children battled childhood cancer and the school went way beyond what was required. They provided groceries gas cards paid electric bills etc. Don't be so quick to judge. There couldn't possibly be a school this wonderful anywhere
This is why we are all proud to be a Wildcat!
as a senior at delmar high school, i respect this decision completely. as said in many comments above, we are a family. where everyone knows everyone and we all come together as one. closing school for the day is a way of paying our respects to his family, and to show how much he will be greatly missed. i saw him at least three or four times a week, helping out others. i find it very funny that the people on here commenting keep bringing up that he was a janitor, which is merely just a title. it saddens me how people think his role at my school was not important, and that he did nothing other then janitor duties when that was not the case. the point of my comment is to say i 100% back up my school in whatever decisions they make, we are a family.. and he was apart of that family. this is all out of respect for him. rip mr. mickey
Anonymous Anonymous said...
How are the people being served by closing school? Answer: they are not being served.
I highly doubt the man who passed away would agree that closing school and using his death as the reason is the correct way to honor him.
The decision is hypocritical on many levels.
Do we pay for our children's education with our taxes? Yes we do.
Do we pay teachers, administrators and BOE employees with out taxes? Yes we do.
Again how is this serving the tax payers?
September 27, 2016 at 9:47 AM
First, teachers are required to take a personal day for this. Second, are we really comparing paying taxes to attending a persons funeral at this point? It's not as if this is a normal occurrence. Just because you pay taxes it does not give you the right to determine how the school system operates. People are so heartless anymore, everything has to involve money. If this were a loved one of yours, would you feel the same way about the school closing to honor them? No, you wouldn't.
This senior isn't spouting off their academic achievements either, they are simply stating a proven and publicized fact about their school. This is a child being more mature than you are. Please grow up. Didn't your parents teach you "if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all?"
I chose Delmar for this very reason...the tight knit community of people who still care. I want my son to know what it means to care about others in the community as if they were family. With the 2 morons we have running for president, this shouldn't even be on your radar! It's about respecting GOOD honest people who have done something in their community....touched lives, made a difference even if it's just putting a smile on a kids face. So please...invest your energy in how we can get these small town good hearted values into the white house instead of worrying about how my awesome small town teaches the youth to respect members of the community!
If you're not from Delmar you wouldn't understand :) This is Delmar. Like it or go somewhere else.
The decision was made to close the school by the Delmar School District with, I'm sure, the blessing of the Delaware Dept. of Education. It is obvious that most parents and residents who pay taxes for the district are in agreement with the decision. So really, who cares what you outsiders think? They are not your students, your taxes or your business. Period.
Heartless, which is probably why you commented anonymously
Wow, that must be the most insensitive comment I've read. Congrats! Hope it makes you feel better you POS. Makes me wonder what kind of send off you'll have when your day arrives. It's not what a person does for a living, it's what he does with his life. You're the loser here!
I much agree. When my friend passed away in a car accident when I went to delmar, they also closed school in order to have the service held in the school. It is what makes these towns more like family then just residents. It is a delmar thing and wildcat pride!
Did he mean enough to go after hour or are you to busy
Yes! Proud of my delmar family. I myself never attended delmar but my children do. It's a family . The 1 school is its own district. And to be closed 1 day to pay respect and honor a member of this family is understandable
Yes! Exactly
This statement tells loads about people in delmar
2 much negativity in the world 2 day sumone always has 2 turn something good into bad, we all have opinions but we're taught if u have nothing nice 2 say then say nothing at all for 1 just out of Respect 2 this man's family and friends I'm very proud 2 b part of this community,school district, sports,etc... we are a TEAM!!! And there needs 2 b more communities sticking and supporting one another such as Delmar! The world were in is chaos and as parents we shld teach our children positivity compassion and love 4 one another and pride in where they came from coming 2gether 4 sumone who was respected ,loved,and looked up 2 or even a friend there should be no frown or shame upon that....sending prayers and luv 2 his family and friends he will b truly missed here at Delmar... This decision shows his family that ppl truly care n have compassion 4 thier loss and by dedicating this day 2 him I congratulate Delmar Community. We definitely need more of this in our world 2day. So out of respect ppl who disagree shld jus keep it 2 themselves a man has passed on there should only be good responses and respect and love .....how would u feel if it was your family member or friend?
Mick Wilkins was a wonderful man who would do anything for anybody. You mean-spirited trolls should hope to someday earn the respect that this man had garnered throughout his short life. He was both my friend and my co-worker, and I, as the rest of the people attending the service are heartbroken. To question the grieving wife's motives is disgusting, you can not know how his family and friends feel, or the comfort we received from each other in this sad time. You should be ashamed of yourselves.
I feel so sorry for you, you must live a miserable existence. Delmar staff is family, no matter the job title.
There is always school choice.
And who said Delaware is competing with Maryland. Immature remarks from insensitive people. Why do we have so many students from the Maryland side if Delmar is so bad? Get over yourselves.
The whole town of Delmar is a family and the fact that some people are rude enough to make a blog about this disgusts me. This man has made a huge impact on my life, when I was having a bad day all I had to do was look at him and he'd smile and I'd smile back. He's the greatest and nicest man I will ever meet, he always had a smile on his face no matter what. I am proud of the school closing today so that I could be there to see this man one last time and by the way the school was closed for thousands of students but as me being a student I was here for him as well as MANYYYYY other fellow classmates and family and friends, THOUSANDS of people came in those doors today to celebrate his life and that's exactly what we did and I couldn't be more proud to be a Delmar Wildcat�� This isn't just any town.. We are a BIG FAMILY within one little town.
How could teachers and staff use their personal and lunch time to attend the funeral if they have hundreds of students to teach?
Very good point. I hope the school district will remember, if they do it for one, they should do it for others. Condolences to the family
Find something else to rant about.... if you don't understand then obviously you are not from Delmar.
Very insensitive thing to say. Yes, he was a janitor and just because he wasn't a Mayor or President of a company or some other bigwig, so what...his life still matters. At least he was working and supporting his family. It's a shame how people can be so cruel and heartless.
Amen as its been said IF YOUR NOT FROM DELMAR YOU WILL NOT UNDERSTANDING
Way to go Delmar!!! We support your decision!!! If you aren't from here you wouldn't understand!!! One town too big for one state!!! Great decision!!
Prayers to his family!
Send your kid(s) to Laurel the
Same goes for you and everyone else commenting lol
that's what sets delmar apart. they wouldn't require either teacher student or staff to use personal day to pay respect to one of their own. good call wildcats
can you recall a time when delmar has not done this for one of their own? unfortunately every so often this happens where a delmar family member passes, to my knowledge at least in the last 15 years or so they have handled it the same way each time and not one person within the town has a problem.
Amen^
someone once told me that when they pass, they want to be able to look down from heaven to see a huge attendance at their funeral. I asked why and he said if you think about it, those that will attend your funeral, are those who's lives you've touched and had an impact on. as stated above, the line was out the door today. that's alot of touched lives for "just a janitor." it dose not matter your title. all that matters is how you live your life with the title you have.
I am sorry for your loss, the school communities loss.
However, I stand firm and say closing school is over the top. Just because my opinion is not like your does not mean I am a troll or trolling.
Get a grip.
Of course you agree with it...you got a day off.
Tell those same teachers they have to take a sick or personal day to catch up on work and see how long it takes for the union to call the school board.
Better yet, send them to Salisbury!
Anonymous Anonymous said...
Of course you agree with it...you got a day off.
Tell those same teachers they have to take a sick or personal day to catch up on work and see how long it takes for the union to call the school board.
September 27, 2016 at 3:59 PM
Yes because teachers never bring work home, ever. Moron. The day off is because of the funeral, I am sure the people are very excited because of that....Salisbury is full of miserable people and crooks.
3:59, I have no doubt that the teachers would give up a day of personal leave to honor someone they cared for. To say that the Delmar teachers were only concerned about a day off is ludicrous.
Meet you at the pole tomorrow. To all the haters this is a first step join your kids at their schools. We need more school's like Delmar.
And how would Delmar be able to afford a countless amount of substitutes? again, it's a Delmar thing, no one else understands but the Wildcat family
Do you think the administration really want to close school? No, they don't. They always want us students working hard to our full potential. A tradgedy occurred and Delmar has off to honor this wonderful man's death. Get over it.
ITS SEVEN HOURS. Get over it.
Why are you arguing about a figure of speech??
Amen...as I am from Delmar we stand as 1 family.
I graduated in 2003 n was born n raised in the Delmar I support the decision! We are a family we r a united community,u don't here much about violence unless people move in from differ areas,with that bein said move to another area if u don't agree😊 #wildcatnation#rashellesmith
I lived in Delmar for 8 years and what I loved about that town is its sense of community. This is a town that rallies around each other and has great pride in the students and faculty that attend there. Well done Delmar. I hope to someday move back.
First of all this man, Mickey, was so much more than just a "janitor", he was a valued co-worker, loving family man, and a true blue & orange Wildcat. His passing is a time to mourn but also a time to celebrate the amazing individual he was, and what better place to do that the the biggest stage Delmar has, and that's our school, the epicenter of every good thing the town stands for and the place Mickey found where he supported his family and his community to the fullest! I ran a quick Google search on "school closing for funeral" and guess what?, it's not uncommon, in fact the search came back with thousands and thousands of instances where this is done all over the country, but apparently the idea seems foreign to the residents at our southern border. Perhaps some Salisbury residents should take a leaf out of the Delmar playbook and start focusing their efforts on community activism and support and they too would reap the benefits of having a neighborhood that bands together in good times and bad and extends their hands to help all who inhabit its borders. Today my children learned that everyone matters, every life makes an impact, and every person deserves to be honored in the way they lived. Thank you Mickey for making my town, my school, and in a way my childres' lives better for you having been in it!
It is unfortunate for some of the parents who had to arrange 1day for students & teachers to pay their respect but I am glad the school system closes for this man who dedicated 19years to his school.
11:12 AM, your complete and utter ignorance made me cry. Hateful.
As the writer for "SBYNEWS", perhaps you should consider sticking to your target audience, SALISBURY. I am not sure why what happens in Delmar should concern you or any other person who is not from Delmar. I am positive there are plenty of things in Salisbury schools that you should be more concerned with. As for the low class, disrespectful individuals who have attacked this decision, and, even worse, to attack the grammar and speech of those who felt the need to defend their community and school, you disgust me and should be ashamed. Well done Delmar! RIP Mickey
5:51, Obviously you don't know me well enough. I own a home in Delmar, 7+ acres, as a matter of fact.
As for the rest of you and as I stated in the original article, why on God's Green Earth would they choose to close the school down! School gets out at 2:30, WHY didn't they hold the services after school? Even better, why not Saturday.
Call me whatever you want, this is complete BS. I mean no disrespect towards the person who passed but clearly this could, (and should) have been handled differently. Too many good options.
Oh, as for the crap about Delmar is a Family, P L E A S E! Does the entire Town show up for every child birth as well? The baby showers must be incredible. Typical Liberal crap.
I am lucky to live in Delmar. Now if i was reading all the comments and I lived outside of this town i would want to move their ASAP.
Out of nothing more than curiosity, if you live in Delmar why is your blog called Salisbury news? And of course not everyone shows up for every baby shower in Delmar, but usually if we find out through channels that's there is a family who is in actual need of items for a baby we find a way to get it to them, and a lot of that happens at our school. Being Family doesn't mean you have to be present for everything it means "hey, we've got your back if you need us."
Again, for curiosity's sake, what prompted you to write this blog? Were you adversely affected by this decision? Did someone ask you to write it? I'm trying to understand motivation here because it seems like such a non-issue.
if your not from delmar, you dont understand delmar life, delmar community, or how our small town works, for this to have even beem a post today... well... enough said!
damn straight we do!!!
amen!!
it allowed the admin, the employees and teachers to attend
Sorry but looking at the number of kids that end up at good 4 year colleges or universities..these kids need more in school time. Why didn't they plan this at 2:30??? Even if 500 kids and parents attended there are still 800 plus that stayed home and watched tv.
those who send their children to delmar illegally, who lie about their addresses so their children can be part of our great school should SHUT UP.
Delmar is friday night lights!!! if you live here you get what that means, if you dont, then maybe you dont understand why this was done, but we do and if it doesnt relate to you, mind your own!!
There was many students and almost every teacher me and Mickeys son have had sense 538th grade was there
The funeral lasted almost 6 hours and many teachers were hurt and they all attended
Joe I think You are missing the big picture. We need more of this type of thing.
Wildcat Pride!
Because it's wrong and absolutely impossible. Just because someone uses a "figure of speech" doesn't make it correct. Speak correctly and intelligently. Is that too much to ask?
Really? You say the person isn't spouting off about academic achievement? I disagree. There is absolutely no reason for them to bring that up unless they are bragging. If they decide to bring it up, they can be called out on it. Their leading statement had nothing to do with the point they were trying to make. As unintelligent as it was. For the people defending them as a "child". This "child" will be out in society in a few months. As a parent, I would be appalled at their writing skills after 12 years of school.
This happens everywhere. You aren't "special"
I used to live in delmar when I was younger but don't anymore. HOWEVER out of respect of the man who passed I respect their decision 100%. Small town are like families. Just like all of the schools honoring a young life that was lost before the school year. It's the same thing. It's respect. It's love. It loyalty. Instead of being about the alright Nick why don't some of you stop and look around. There is a whole great big world out there. You blink of don't pay attention its all going to home before you know it.
Joe, perhaps instead of posting about this today, you should have taken your time to go to the school and see exactly why that decision was made. I am a family member of the man everyone is speaking of and, from the time I entered the doors this morning through the 2 hour visitation that turned into over 3 hours because the line of people was continually out the door, through the amazing funeral, and to the wonderful meal of fellowship manned by the DELMAR DISTRICT STAFF MEMBERS, I was amazed and comforted at the time, patience, kindness and support that was offered by this school district to one of it's long time and well loved employees. My own children are graduates of this school and for that I am grateful. Each of you leaving negative comments, I'm sad that you have never experienced that level of kindness personally. To you, Joe, I don't care how much land you own in Delmar, if you don't get it by now, you never will.
Well, that should be obvious. A six hour long service, procession to burial site, burial. I guess they could have done that by candle light. And if it was my family member, I would want closure and not have to take a week to get it.
7:45, SATURDAY. That's all I need to say.
I apologize. It did sound a little harsh. Many (not all) Salisbury residents care very little for their own neighborhoods, neighbors or students. They don't value their own lives much less others. It hurts and angers me that so many people who have nothing to do with our town or are school would say so many cruel things that the family will read. It's heartless. Sometimes you have to realize that a there are more important things in life than tax dollars, a 7 hour school day or time off for teachers.
As a Delmar School District teacher, I was honored to be a part of celebrating the life of one of our own! Mickey spent many years working in our district. Today, it was very fitting that we showed our respect to his family by opening our facility so there would be space for all who wished to attend. Although Delmar staff had the opportunity to take a personal day, our building was filled with staff, who not only worked hard on curriculum for our students, but also set an example by serving Mickey's family in a variety of ways. To the writers that had better ideas.... today's services were just as they should be, allowing his family to share with us a "snapshot" of the values that Mickey held dear. Values that reflect what is really important! Respect, Family, and Thoughtfulness. From the many comments that I have read on this post, perhaps many of you could use a lesson in what is important. Delmar teachers will be sharing this message with our students! None of us knows what tomorrow will bring! Spend time loving the people that you are close to instead of criticizing others for doing so! I am unapologetically proud to be a part of this school system. No price tag, or tax dollar, can touch what took place today!
What? Is this how people write now?
Mrs Smith, if you are a teacher, as stated, please review some of the above statements from students. I think you will agree that the writing style, grammar and punctuation of these children needs vast improvement. I understand that "no child left behind" is the edict. However, from what I see, some children SHOULD be left behind. These are young adults that will be interacting in society in the near future. Their written communication skills are deplorable. This should serve as a wake up call for the school. I am shocked by their inability to convey a thought in writing.
Salisbury has no sense of community. This is what sets Delmar apart. With the way Salisbury is you could never do what Delmar did. In Salisbury the parents view school as a baby-sitting service - period! I come from a smaller school district in another state as well and community and family were everything and still are!
Another senior from Delmar who does not know the rules of capitalization and punctuation. It is scary to think that the teachers at Delmar find this acceptable and award passing grades to these students. This senior will graduate in a few short months. They will be required to utilize written communications skills in the workplace. I am shocked at the level of writing by these students....utterly and thoroughly shocked. Parents and teachers should not accept this as the "norm." Schools need to address this immediately. If not, they are doing a disservice to the student as well as the community.
Trying to read this is like slowly dying from a million paper cuts. What is "Sumone?" If this is acceptable to teachers and school systems, our country is doomed. This is obviously how they write all the time. Unbelievable.
Once a Wildcat.....Always a Wildcat. Delmar is the best and always be! 100% support their decision! A small town sticks together and that's what delmar is all about. Family!
Sincerely,
A Former Student
Please leave your name and number so you can help tutor. I know how much you would love to help.
As a teacher for the Delmar School District I feel that it is important for me to speak out. First, this was not "just a day off" for any of us. We worked the same hours as we do every day...7:45-3:45. During these hours we planned lessons, graded papers, entered grades for progress reports, completed paperwork mandated by the state, and completed other work in our classrooms. We also helped with the funeral before, during, and after the services. We did not do this because we were told to, but because, quoting another Delmar teacher, "Delmar loves Delmar". It is what we do...it is who we are. Mickey Wilkins was a man who stood for everything Delmar. What an honor it was for me to have the privilege of knowing this man...and a small gesture of closing school to honor this man and his grieving family is one way to honor his life and his dedication to Delmar. Our community is one that I wish everyone had the opportunity to live in...most of us (Mr. Albero obviously aside) bleed orange and blue. As for the students missing a day of education, please do not worry...we are all very highly qualified teachers and will be sure to make up the time. I only hope that when I pass I will have made the impact on my community that Mickey Wilkins did. So, instead of focusing on the negative, it would be wonderful for all of us to honor the man who Mr. Wilkins was by changing ourselves a little...love our families a little more, spread joy in the community that we live in, and live every day as if it were our last.
Why do you need help? It's YOUR job!!! That is what you went to school for. No one comes and helps me do MY job!!! Fail them instead of simply pushing them through the system. Ridiculous.
Why do you need help tutoring? From all the comments I've read from Delmar residents, you are a community that helps each other with everything. A community with pride that "no one understands". Well, as this "special community" everyone should show this "pride" and not allow these children to graduate with piss poor communication skills. Here is an idea, instead of everyone going to a funeral together or showing up at every birth (as a commenter stated above), why not go to the schools and help tutor the children. Now THAT would be a "special" community. But alas, that doesn't happen. You're right.,.we DON'T understand. You're only a community when it's convenient.
You people are really worried about someone's spelling and grammar on a blog? Many people talk/type different on the internet/texting than in more formal settings (i.e. school). Especially younger kids.
As far as having the funeral during the week and cancelling school instead of the weekend - school was closed as a way to honor this man who gave so much of his time and life to the school.
Yes Joe, you may live in Delmar but you sure as heck aren't FROM Delmar. If you were then you would understand this decision and all the support from it. Like many have said Delmar is a very special place. When one hurts we all hurt. This community is a family. One of the top public schools in Delaware and in this area. Some of you people need to take notes on how Delmar does things. Maybe Salisbury wouldn't be such a terrible place if that happened.
Sound like a bunch of BOE babies!!!
I get that he was well liked and a great man, but in the private sector, they would not have closed the office. For consideration, viewings are usually at night the burial on a Saturday or afternoon. You all sound like a bunch of entitled cry babies to me!!!
Sorry it hurt your feelings to suggest that maybe the funeral could have been held after school hours, but it makes no sense to close the entire school for a funeral!!!
????????? Do you also whine when schools close for Elections or Professional Days???????? If you want to bitch about something, at least find a real cause. This was a person in my family and I am deeply disturbed by your reactions. What is one day in the scheme of life to these students and teachers? They all attended yesterday and I heard "NO" negativity, only good words about someone they all knew and loved, who had worked there for 18 years, who gave his all to make people satisfied and happy! How would you react were it your family member???? You need to learn EMPATHY!
Why do so many negative answers hide behind an "anonymous" screen? If you want to make a statement, identify yourself. Otherwise, I feel you have nothing of merit to say!
Debbie, since you asked, yes, schools are large enough to hold voting while school is still in session that day. It's bad enough the requirement minimum days of attendance is as tight as it is, they should simply shut down the gym for election day while students still attend. Yeah, I'm sure that will infuriate the Liberals but you asked, that's how I feel.
As for closing Delmar yesterday, many of the positive comments here are from ONE individual, another Liberal tactic.
Finally, to ALL of you. Learn to "agree to disagree". Clearly I/We do not expect everyone to agree with our views. Considering they DID close the school for this event I'm very happy it turned out as well as some of you say it did. I simply disagree with shutting the school down.
As I stated in my above comment, many of the anonymous comments are from the same person, that's why. They simply want to make it look like more people actually support this event. I have yet to speak to ONE person who agrees with shutting down the school and I've received a lot of calls and text messages about it.
Forgive me, I should have responded to all of your questions.
"How would you react were it your family member????" I would NEVER even THINK of asking the school to shut down and inconvenience thousands of people.
"You need to learn EMPATHY!" Pot calling kettle black. How about all of the parents who had to pay for someone to be home with their children.
Yes. If you are going to go into a public forum and defend yourself and your actions, do it intelligently. To argue that school should be closed for a funeral and that the day of instruction wasn't important while displaying terrible writing skills is counterproductive to your argument and is an indictment of the school system as a whole. You are a reflection of what you "put out there" on display. From what I've seen, each and every student NEEDED to be in class yesterday.
Thank you Joe for responding. Also, let me respond to you. First I am FAR from being a LIBERAL, never would I claim that distinction. As large as the viewing funeral line was, only a fraction of the students would have been able to pay their respects to "Mr. Mike" had school been in attendance. Also, "pot calling the kettle black", in those grievances stated, it was not because of parents having to hire sitters, I can understand that part of the negative side to closing the school. I feel for those parents but I stand behind what I say in that I truly don't believe any one in the Delmar district begrudged whatever they had to do in order for it to happen. As far as You would never ask them to do this....they didn't ask, the school Requested. When a family loses a loved one, they rely on the outpouring of love around them in part for consolation and this was consolation and validation of Mickey's life at the school. Foremost, don't tell me what you would or wouldn't do until you WALK in those shoes, then you can debate this!
Debbie, I didn't call "you" a liberal. That is, unless "you" are the one posting a ton of anonymous comments, which I doubt very seriously.
IF this event was held on a Saturday, I disagree with your statement and that was my whole point. I think it's a great thing the school was willing to honor this man but it should have been done on a Saturday.
As for WALKING in your shoes, do you really think I have not experienced losses in my Family. Lets start with Gary Albero, who died on 9/11 in the Twin Towers. No schools were closed on his behalf.
So please be careful when you make such statements because you never know when and if it will come back and bite you in the you know what, with all due respect.
It is all a moot point now...tired of debating it. When I said walk in these shoes I specifically meant these shoes, this circumstance. I take nothing away from your loss, I grieved for all on 9/11. This is comparing apples to oranges...Mickey worked at the school and the school wanted to participate. Enough said. I stand by all I say and have said, if it bites me, so be it. Thank you for allowing my opinion. It will most likely be the last one on your blog, in all due respect.
Debbie, Thank You for the healthy debate. We're sorry for your loss.
Thank you.
Of course you agree with it. A paid day off. You're probably on an improvement plan anyway.
What's an improvement plan?
The kids are not writing as if they were doing school work. They are typing as if they are texting, any one would understand that. Most texting does not use capitals, lots of punctuation, and they abbreviate. I am an older person, and even I can tell the difference. Their comments do not reflect on their academic abilities at all, but your's might be suspect.
Rutland intermediate had a 2hr delay then 45 mins into school they cancelled great leadership in OUR county education program way to run a school people. I guess at least they didn't yet to keep them until the end of the day to save face
Do the same process when they all go on a conference.
All school have family elements. in a family you try to keep things normal as possible so it's a easy transition for the kids. There is a lot of adult emotions going on here . if the kids were to act like this you would be all over them about there conduct. Stop it's your emotions talking.
Now all this being said go back to school and tell the kids don't read all the negative comments.the custodian isn't even aware of what's going on but the students have read every comment and is seeing how it really is behind anonymous.you can always write how great he was but to call people in salisbury not caring show. it has always been that Delmar was the perfered district to be in. not so sure now. From someone who works in a salisbury high school. If I knew the names of some of these people I would stay away. This is a very negitive transition for the family.
I guess he wouldn't have seen them that night or the day they found out has nothing to do with the lines that a statement of some one witha big house 4 cars and lots of jewelry.
Long funeral how long was the service? did all the students attend? the line would have been longer if school stayed open had the service in the afternoon then everyone could have gone home on busses it's all about the line. By the way if the sentence run on who cares it not a letter to the president.
Expect BOE was not expecting the degree of flooding on shore that was predicted AFTER school was in session. There is no way my children could have returned home on the bus had school dismissed at the usual time. Out of curosity, where is Rutland?
IMO you need to join the Delmar Community to learn how Delmar is - not condem them for messing up your day. Only an idiot would demand the family hold the service on a day of YOUR choice,
IMO - A person who only thinks of his own needs and demands, is incapable of seeing the picture - or even listening to or understanding the Delmar Community.
10:01 & 10:08, WOW! In today's day and age with so many children NOT getting regular meals at home you'd think this would be a bigger concern then attending a funeral.
Think about this as well. IF this event had been held on a Saturday instead, far more of the "children" would have been able to attended verses a week day, closing the school, parents being at work and not able to bring their child to the weekday event. At least the odds of more parents being off on a Saturday would've delivered more attendance.
Spin it all you want on Delmar being a "family" or that Joe is such a bad guy for exposing the truth. The school was closed on a regular scheduled school day, that's a fact. However, this could have been avoided and it is my belief that some, (not all) simply wanted the day off and they got it.
Think of all the substitutes who could've used the work that day because you know not all students attended the funeral. Sounds like another I saw a snowflake day.
My prayers to the man's family.
You work in a Salisbury School? Doing what? Your spelling and grammar leaves a lot to be desired too. And people are talking about the students' writing skills? Please...
If you are going to go into a public forum and defend yourself and your actions, do it intelligently. To argue that school should be closed for a funeral and that the day of instruction wasn't important while displaying terrible writing skills is counterproductive to your argument and is an indictment of the school system as a whole. You are a reflection of what you "put out there" on display. From what I've seen, each and every student NEEDED to be in class yesterday. If you want to express your opinions and BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY, have enough pride in yourself to post a WELL WRITTEN response. It really is a simple concept.
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