April 6, 2013 From: Concerned Parents at Norfeldt Elementary To: Karen List, Superintendent West Hartford Schools We are writing you about an issue that has recently come to our attention and has caused us a great deal of concern. We have recently been informed that Judie Goldenthal, the kindergarten teacher at Norfeldt Elementary for 23 years, has been instructed to move to teach 4th grade next year. Mrs. Goldenthal, a beloved, seasoned, senior level kindergarten teacher, was given no choice, no other options, and no possibility for discussion, but was simply informed of this decision after it had been made. First of all, we are deeply concerned that this is an egregious example of age discrimination. Judie is close to retirement. She has devoted over 30 years to the West Hartford public school system, 23 of those years as the kindergarten teacher at Norfeldt. She was a Finalist for Teacher of the Year in 2005. She single-handedly, and on her own time, introduced Smart Boards into Norfeldt School, teaching other teachers how to use this innovative instructional method. Further, she is an integral and key part of the kindergarten team. She played a significant role in developing the curriculum and adapting to the new core curriculum. The idea of a teacher of this caliber and experience being forced to move to a much higher level grade at this point in her career, is ageism and we should all be concerned about this kind of precedent in our school systems. Second, the idea that Judie was told this is the “best interest for the students,” is also of concern. We have a difficult time understanding how it is in the best interest of our students. For the fourth grade students, they will be taught by an excellent kindergarten teacher. While she certainly has the ability to teach any grade, she shines with the kindergarten students. Fourth grade needs a completely different focus and attention. And the incoming kindergarten children will miss out on an excellent teacher. While those not involved in the school systems might think there is little difference between these grades, we know you, as educators, understand the vast difference. Third, while not posed this way to Judie, we believe there are other options and solutions. Additionally, the belief that there will only be two kindergarten classes in the fall is being made very early. There is every possibility that more families will register their children and we will actually have the need for three kindergartens. Further, we are aware of other teachers who would be willing to move to teach the necessary fourth grade class. Unfortunately, the decision to remove Judie from kindergarten was made without any discussion, any reasonable dialogue, or any room for debate. We know, once you are aware of all the facts, you will share our concern about not only the decision itself, but the way the decision was made. We believe Judie must be allowed to remain as a kindergarten teacher until the time she decides is right for retirement. Thank you for your consideration in this matter. Concerned Parents of Norfeldt