Re “Principal Magee Is Off to the Palisades”
I want to begin by wishing Pam Magee the best of success as she moves to Palisades Charter High School.
She is a strong administrator who is unafraid to make difficult decisions. Having worked with many families whose children currently attend Palisades Charter, Dr. Magee is sure to meet the needs of the community well.
I want to clarify a few inaccuracies in your article posted earlier today in which I was referenced a number of times.
First of all, your reference to the “Silver Fiasco” is the first time that I am hearing it called as such. I hardly want that type of chaos associated with the work I have done with the students at Culver City High School or Dr. Magee's effectiveness as principal. It was a bad situation that was corrected. We were all encouraged to move forward.
Secondly, there were never any “noisy off stage confrontations” nor a “pivotal showdown.” Yes, I was summoned by Dr. Magee over a five-month period more times than I had been “sent to the principal's office” (in total) over my 30-plus year career. However, the meetings were civil and respectful under very stressful circumstances. They were conducted behind closed doors and witnessed by union representation and additional administrators.
Finally, as I continue to be grateful to the CCUSD School Board for rescinding the decision not to rehire me, never once have I felt jubilant. In fact, the conditions on campus grew even more challenging for me after the School Board's reversal was made. Moving forward was easier said than done.
The extreme stress made me very ill. My doctors would not let me return to teaching after spring break. My health is recovering, but it is a slow road. Jubilant? Not for my students or me.
I have spent much time reflecting on the events of this year; I understand that people were reacting to their disappointment that I was reinstated. I had hoped that they would have compassion for me as I do for them.
I am not surprised to learn of Dr. Magee's new position; it was expected based on her completion of her Ed.D. She deserves to move forward with her aspirations. You give me too much credit. I do not believe that I have nor ever had the influence to impact life at Culver City High School or Dr. Magee as portrayed in your article. I hope that the community understands that Dr. Magee was doing what she felt was necessary to protect the AVPA.
In the big picture to Dr. Magee and CCUSD, the “Silver Fiasco” will have been but a fly in the ointment. Within two years, will long be forgotten.
Thank you for your attention and support throughout this year. Having spoken with you on several occasions, I know that accuracy is tantamount in your journalistic efforts.
Sincerely yours,
Sheila Silver
Ms. Silver may be contacted at octoy97@hotmail.com
