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No More Alabama Kids Allowed In Florida Schools

October 1, 2008

School boards in Alabama and Florida are putting an end to the long standing practice of allowing Alabama students to cross the state line to attend Florida schools.

Since 1999, a written agreement between the school districts of Escambia County, Alabama, and Escambia County, Florida, has allowed up to 100 students per year from Escambia, Alabama, to attend school in Escambia County, Florida.

At a recent meeting of the Escambia County (Alabama) School Board, the board voted to rescind that agreement effective with the next school year. For the agreement to officially end, Escambia County, Florida, must rescind it as well.

The Escambia County (Florida) School Board will vote on revoking the agreement at a future meeting, district spokesperson Ronnie Arnold told NorthEscambia.com.

Once the agreement is gone, Alabama students currently enrolled in Escambia, Florida, schools will be allowed to finish the highest level offered by the school where they are currently enrolled.

“For example, an Alabama student in the third grade at Bratt Elementary would be allowed to attend school here through the fifth grade,” Arnold said. Once that child finished fifth grade, they would not be allowed to move on to middle school in Florida. A student attending Ernest Ward Middle School under the agreement would be allowed to finish the eighth grade but not be allowed to attend Northview High School.

“By and large, the decision to end this agreement had to do more with the Alabama system losing students to Florida,” Arnold said.

“You had parents that lived in say Atmore that worked in Cantonment that enrolled their students in Florida. It was just more feasible for the families,” he said.

Arnold said it is a complicated decision, because many parents wish to send their children to Florida schools because they feel they have more to offer. But the influx of Alabama students into already crowded Florida schools has created problems with Florida’s class size restrictions.

There is still at least one circumstance where a student that lives in Alabama might still be able to attend school in Florida. The student of divorced parents could live with one parent or guardian during the week in Alabama while their legal custodial parent is in Florida.

Escambia County (Alabama) Superintendent of Education Billy Hines did not return NorthEscambia.com’s phone calls after we left messages Tuesday on his voice mail and with a secretary.

Your comments on this story are welcome below. However, do not mention any child or their parent/guardian by name.

Pictured above: Of the 100 students from Alabama allowed to attend school in Escambia County, Florida, 18 of them attend Ernest Ward Middle School. Once an agreement between the districts in the two states is revoked, they will be allowed to continue at Ernest Ward but not move on to Northview High School. NorthEscambia.com photo.

Comments

159 Responses to “No More Alabama Kids Allowed In Florida Schools”

studentss on October 13th, 2008 2:43 pm

All this stuff is pretty ridiclous if you ask me. People are fighting and arguing about things that can be ignored. What does it matter if Alabama kids come over to Florida schools anyway? Well i think we should just let this stupid conflict go and not worry about it!!!!!!!!!! if it a big deal like people make it to be let them worry about it! they obviously don’t have a kid in school.
Doglover on October 7th, 2008 10:24 pm

Atmore schools have teachers just as good as the Florida schools. They are not the problem. The problem is the environment and by that I do not mean black kids. The kids come to school and they don’t care about their grades. Their parents usually act just as bad as the kids. According to them it is never their kids being bad. You can only do so much with what you have to work with!
ECHS Parent on October 7th, 2008 10:42 am

I think that there are alot of problems with Esc Co, AL schools that need resolution. But, if you take time to pay attention, you would know that alot of them are being addressed. I have friends who “bootleg” their kids across the state line, I choose not to do so. I am proud to say I am a product of the Es Co, AL school system. I have 2 children that graduated in the top 10 of their class, with honors from ECHS. They are both successfully pursing a college degree. I also have students still attending ECHS. I also work for Es Co, AL school system (yes, I am posting during my planning period). I have friends that work for Es Co, AL and Es Co, FL school systems. No school is without it’s problems and if you think that they are, you need to get your head out of the sand. If you want to send your child to FL schools, that’s your choice…buy some land and build yourself a nice house or buy a trailer. Just move across the line and the problem is solved. The bottom line is, we’re griping about right and wrong and what’s best for our children. The people that live in Atmore and are illegally sending their children across the line to FL schools are doing wrong. It’s against the law! If you used the time it takes you everyday to transport your child to FL and volunteered at an Atmore school, maybe we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Running from a problem and manipulation of the system is never the answer. Let’s all try to be a cure and not a cause. Sadly we’re missing the point. The children are the most important thing. The downfall of any of our schools is ultimately the downfall of our community….whether you live in Atmore or Walnut Hill.
EA Mom on October 6th, 2008 11:38 pm

I am sending my kids to EA to escape the environment of the Atmore schools. Not the black population. When we go to ballgames we don’t worry about our kids running around and playing. We know everyone is watching out for all the kids. Not just their own. I would never let my child do that at an Atmore game. The only time I have heard of a problem at our football game is this year when some Northview kids came to the 1st game and booed our kids. And they were sitting on our side!
EA Mom on October 6th, 2008 11:14 pm

Tray,
Your commentary was very well written. You are an assest to ECHS . It also says alot for EA’s academics since you went to school here until the 10th grade. So we must be doing something right!
EA Mom on October 6th, 2008 10:21 pm

Truthteller,
You said it all. We have had some problems these past couple of years but now we are back on track. I wish we could get back a couple of the kids that left us but the majority I don’t.
Doglover on October 6th, 2008 10:16 pm

I work in the Atmore schools and I see kids all the time coming to us because they can’t pass the FCAT. Alabama schools are behind FL schools. The Atmore parents defending the schools are in denial and don’t want to see it. I know a kid who went to Ernest Ward when he left ECMS and he did not like it because he actually had to do work! Can you believe that? They may him work! He lasted about a month and came back.
EA Mom on October 6th, 2008 9:31 pm

Concerned Fl Mom of 3, You hit it on the head. Most people can’t afford to buy 20 acres of land. I would be there in a heartbeat otherwise!.
EA Mom on October 6th, 2008 9:24 pm

Angela, If the Atmore schools are so great why did you move to Florida so that your child could go to school there? I talked to alot of Atmore teachers who had their children at other schools. The one thing I heard the most was “so I know that they are safe”. Just wondering.
Alabama Man on October 6th, 2008 3:24 pm

Let me correct myself, would their attitude be the same toward Bratt/Ernest Ward as it would towards Carver/Century? No way.
Alabama Man on October 6th, 2008 3:15 pm

Right on Century lady! Let’s see if the Atmore parents are ready to pitch in and support Florida schools as much as they say. I wonder if their attitude would be the same toward Century/Carver as it is towards Rachael Patterson/A.C. Moore, hmmmmmmmmmmm? I don’t think so.
Century Lady on October 6th, 2008 2:53 pm

I think the Fl. School Board can leave Carver/Century School open and send all the Atmore students there. They can have a bus to meet them at Piggly Wiggly on Hwy97 and bring them to Century, it would solve the problem with Carver/Century having low numbers and would help keep the B grade up! They would welcome them with open arms. Carver/century is an Fl school with the same curriculum and the same qualified Teachers as Ernest Ward and Bratt Schools and that is the real reason they want to come to Fl. Schools and not because of not wanting their children to go to School with black children right! I feel this would help the Atmore children and Carver/Century School
Jill on October 6th, 2008 2:09 pm

My mom would have found another way to get us a better education, legally. We did not have alot of money at the time. EA was not an option at the time. My mom did what was best at the time under the circumstances. I was not on here to calculate statistics, just to give another side of the story first hand.

My sister was tested by the Escambia County, AL School Board, therefore Flomaton was not an option either, and they refused to give her the help she needed. They did not think she needed to be in a special education class. They said she would do just fine in a mainstream class. Escambia County, FL School Board differed in their opinion. My mom had an option, wrote a letter to the school board, and they approved us.

I’m coming from an older background, I understand that. Until I read the article, I thought we were the last of the border kids. I don’t believe there were as many crossing the state line then as there are today. Although, I have heard all these arguments before, back in the early 90s.

It hurts though to hear all the name-calling and, lack for a better word, mudslinging from some people. There are better ways to express views. These are children that everyone is talking about.

It’s true. Many fine students graduated from ECHS, some of them are relatives. I don’t disagree with that, but comparing the time I spent in Escambia County, AL schools to Escambia, FL schools, my time and my sister’s time in Florida overall was much better. I do not believe that we took anything away from a florida student. However, I do wish there was a voucher program.

Should I have children, they will not attend Montgomery public schools. They will go to private schools. We have the money. Yes everyone should work to change the laws and make your school better, but till laws are changed I’m going to give the best education I can for my children.
RESOLVED on October 6th, 2008 12:24 pm

Jill, what would have happened if your family had not had the convenience of living close to a state line? Don’t forget those students in Alabama who do not and did not have that option. Thus the reason for laws. Why is it fair for students to get “special permission” simply because of convenient location? You can argue safety, quality education, etc., but the fact remains that those issues are in ALL schools, then and now. And if I have my facts straight, mainstreaming and inclusion for special ed students was not mandatory in Alabama (or any state) until No Child Left Behind was passed–after your graduation from Ernest Ward.
If we don’t like the rules and laws, then work to change them legally and for the benefit of all. Also, there are “darn” many Escambia County, Alabama graduates who have two college degrees, or more. You have a business degree–from an Alabama university. You calculate the statistics.
Jill on October 6th, 2008 10:33 am

I posted the comment below on Atmore Advance’s web site and was told by a friend to visit here. I also want to add that back when I was at Ernest Ward in the late 80’s / early 90’s (Wow I’m getting old ), I did not feel safe at Escambia Middle in it’s old location. They were bringing knifes to school back then. I did feel very safe at Ernest Ward. I was able to be a part of so many programs that I would not have had the chance to at Atmore. It hurts when people insinuate that we did it because we’re racist or escaping the black population. That is so far from the truth. It was a safety issue and for us getting my sister the help she needed.

“I am a former Atmore resident who now resides in Montgomery as a programmer analyst for the state. I lived in Alabama and graduated from Ernest Ward High School in 1994. Yes, I’m one of those kids and darn proud of it. I believe I received a far better education from Escambia County, FL than I would have ever received from Escambia County, AL. I have two college degrees, one being from Auburn University in business.

To those people who are so quick to judge and can only spout hate, maybe you should find out the reason they crossed the state line. My sister has a learning disability. She needed special help. Alabama tried to put her into a mainstream class instead of a special needs class.

My mom wanted the best education for her child and appealed to the Escambia County, FL BOE. They accepted my sister into Bratt and she was put into a special needs class. She made progress by leaps and bounds. I was accepted for a conflict of interest. A couple of years later, they were going to repel the agreement and make us go back to Atmore. My mom was searching for a house for us to move to so we could stay in Florida schools. They ended up letting us finish at the school we were currently attending. I graduated and my sister then went to private school.

I can understand how one would feel as a taxpayer, but please take the time to understand our side also. These are just parents who want the best for their children. “
RESOLVED on October 6th, 2008 9:45 am

People, the issue has already been resolved between the two local boards: No more Alabama students may attend Florida schools. The only choices left are as follows:

1. Will the respective school boards ENFORCE the policy upon which they have agreed? (Their track record for the “legal 100″ has not been too great thus far.)

2. Will these upstanding, law-abiding citizens continue to falsify records so that their children can attend another school illegally? (Yes, this is called lying.)

Solutions are a moot point at this time. The Escambia County (AL) Board of Education has made its decision, and the school board in Florida obviously has agreed and will vote later this month. The only problem I have with the agreement between the two boards is that Alabama students may continue attending the Florida schools until the highest grade in that school is completed. Why prolong the inevitable. Finish the year, then go back to Alabama. School boards and principals–in both counties, do your job. Monitor the situation and let this be over. Students will coninue to be educated and be successful–if that is the priority of both the students and their parents.
fl mom on October 6th, 2008 9:43 am

Tray Smith, what an excellent commentary! You are not only right, but should be commended for your articulation and maturity concerning this matter. What an outstanding voice your school has to represent them! I appreciate your comments and agree with them wholeheartedly! I feel that most of my community agrees, as well. Good job!
Teacher on October 6th, 2008 9:23 am

Well said Tray! You must have read my mind because you voiced my exact thoughts. Such wise words coming from an 18 year old should motivate and inspire all of the “commenters” on this site!

Tray Smith for Mayor of Atmore!
Tray Smith on October 6th, 2008 12:15 am

A lot has been posted on this website about the affect this action will have on students. As the elected President of the Escambia County High School Student Government Association, I deal with the impact interstate school crossing has on students every day. Currently, the Alabama State Department of Education is monitoring Escambia County High School, and the ALSDE has placed observers on campus. These officials have already interrupted the school’s operation, but if test scores do not improve, they will take command of the school within two years. Schools run by ALSDE are miserable environments for students and teachers alike. Yet, ECHS is on the verge of contending with such a catastrophe.

This scenario is unfolding not because ECHS’s students are less intelligent or its teachers are less motivated. I am an ECHS student who has worked for Congress, the Governor of of Alabama, and the Alabama State House of Representatives. My experience is testimony that there is nothing an ECHS student cannot achieve. My school is facing state intervention not because its students are inferior, but because its test scores are low, as is its graduation rate. Why are these statistics low? Because Atmore’s best and brightest have fled to Florida in order to avoid the significant black population at ECHS, and left the school with students who either have obstacles to retaining information or who come from socioeconomic circumstances that make learning and graduating extremely difficult.

Instead of using their talents to lift these kids up and create equal opportunity for everyone, smart and capable white students have fled to Florida schools illegally, shamefully reestablishing segregation in the twenty first century. This phenomenon effectively tells black students in Atmore schools, many of whom are already contending with difficult home situations, that they are not good enough to go to school with the white children. In the process, it drains Florida taxpayers resources that could be spend on Florida children. Those who have commented that the sacrifice taxpayer’s make to finance the education of Alabama students is irrelevant if those students are able to get a better education in Alabama need to consider the additional programs Florida schools could offer if they weren’t bleeding money to Alabama schools. The Escambia County Florida school board already cut millions in spending this year and is making hundreds of students walk to school as a result: many of those cuts may not have been necessary if Alabama students were not draining Florida’s budget.

Meanwhile, the community of Atmore, which stands to gain from economic growth in Mobile and economic investment from the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, cannot truly become a prosperous community unless all of its residence unify behind the public school system. Only if we can set up institutions like Daphne, Spanish Fort, Hoover, and T.R. Miller, all schools that have the support of everyone in those respective communities, can we truly attract talents people, good families, and investment. Unfortunately, a few of Atmore citizens are unconcerned with these possibilities; these folks are sacrificing our town’s future in order to make sure their children do not have to go to school with black kids.

Now that this agreement has been revoked, the United States Department of Justice needs to put an end to this racially motivated hoax by investigating Florida administrators complacent with lying parents and forcing Florida schools to mandate additional identification when students are enrolled. The well being of students in Florida and Alabama depend on such an outcome, and so does the well being of any student who hopes to raise their family in Atmore one day.
BGA on October 5th, 2008 11:05 pm

This is my last comment on the silly mess Florida tax are so darn hight yes Florida pays alot of taxes alot more than alabama does this should be about the kids education not about the tax if you owe pay Florida or Alabama tax just keep paying them let the kids be happy ……. i have to pay once a year almost $500.00 for just a (LOT ).in Florida thats sad. theres nothing here in Century for the kids but DRAMA nothing todo let them pick thier school and be happy. and get a high school diploma
unknown on October 5th, 2008 8:12 pm

Dear Al mom After reading all the comments made from Al parents I feel I diplomatically tried to help you see how Fl parents feel. Since most of you feel free to make comments about how we’re just jealous of Al students, I may be free to truly express how I feel.
The Al public school system is in the toliet because all the parents that will work to ensure that the public schools suceed took their children out and put them into private schools. So now that the Fl taxpayers can educate your children for free you are more than happy to bring them to Fl.. Take your children back to Al. Pay to educate your own children with your own state tax.
Furthermore I have nothing to be jealous about when it comes to my children competing with Al students. Both MY children graduated in the top ten of their graduating class. Both went to college, graduated with HONORS, both now have their master’s and both have very sucessful careers.
The majority of the comments I have read from Al parents are we’re jealous, you pay taxes too, yada yada yada. You would think that it would benefit you to act the least bit grateful for the opportunity to attend Fl schools but that is not the majority of opinions I have read. To sum it up take your children BACK to your state and clean up your school system.
alabama mom on October 5th, 2008 1:10 pm

All this stuff boils down to the parents being jealous of the child getting on a sports team >>>>> get over it already.
BGA on October 5th, 2008 11:51 am

I say as long as they make good grades and getting high school diploma then leave the children alone They trying or tried to close Century school so why make a dig deal where the kids go now…. there is really no scense in all this mess keep going…tax or no tax the kids are worried more than tha parents im sure
not a problem on October 5th, 2008 11:40 am

Unknown…don’t you get it…the taxes would NOT rise if we “paid our way”. And no thank you, I am certainly not sending my children to EA.

We have had many people come on her and fuss and complain but not many people willing to offer solutions (only a few). That is a solution to the problem – fees in lieu of taxes. If AL parents want to send their children to FL schools, then assess them with a fee. If they aren’t willing to pay the fee, then turn them away. Case closed and problem solved!
unknown on October 4th, 2008 10:00 pm

To miss alabama who is willing to pay $3600 in tuition for her daughter to attend Northview, if you can pay that much in tuition to Fl why not just put your children in EA? We feel for you Al parents and the state the Al school system finds itself in but in no way did we contribute to the state of your educational system.
It should not be our responsibility to educate the children from another state. Why should our elderly parents bear the rising taxes on their already overburdened and limited incomes to help educate your children? I would venture to say that if the situation were reversed (Fl students pouring into the Al schools) you would feel the same way we do.
To all the students involved in this debacle I realize the Al parents are trying to do the best they can for their children. But in these financially stressful times it makes it very hard for people to be generous when the policy is unfair to all concerned. This policy has been a failure from the people who should have been safeguarding their children’s futures in a better manner (I am referring to adminstration, parents, school boards, etc.) on both sides of the state line.
If both states agree to a tuition or a voucher program most of the Fl parents would feel differently.
A resentful situation has been allowed to run unchecked for too long. Fl parents paying taxes to rightfully educate their children while watching Al students overcrowd their classrooms, Fl students sit the bench while Al students get to play sports etc. is not right nor is it fair.
BGA on October 4th, 2008 9:32 pm

Oh you all think you have something to talk about get this. few years ago3 or 4 years a ago when we had the two hurricanes back to back my grandsons teacher in Alabama FES told the principal that he had been staying with me his grandmother in Century going to Flomaton ..the princpial called us up and said come remove your child from my school today right now she called us 3 times in one day she said i heard he has been staying with you in Florida well guess what ????? this princpial knew my nebighbors had kids going to Alabama and living in Florida i ask why is it just my grandson from Florida she said because we have people coming in from out of town with kids that needs to be put in school and your child is not living in Alabama…. so i moved both grandkids to Florida .. my grandkids were very sad they cryed they made A’s and B; grades they were so unhappy their grades went to to D’s and F’s i have the proof….when i got ready to put my grandkids back in Alabama a year later this principal said they can not come back to this school unless you give their Father joint custody i told her she was stupid and had lost her mine… this is how my grandkids were treated about this Alabama and Floridda school deal ….. My daugther had trouble liveing in Florida going to Alabama they gave her a hard time and sent the school diststic to my house …BUT GUESS WHAT my neighbors kids were still in Florida going to Alabama that was ok !!!!!!!!!!!!.. so i gave my daugther custody of my youngest daugther to finish school in Alabama.. she went to kindergarden to 9th then they started giving me prombles thats ok she graduated from FLOMATON HIGH SCHOOL just like her nieghbors did ! it really shouldnt matter where the kids goes to school as long as they get a high school education all kids need it this time and day
suggestion on October 4th, 2008 6:56 pm

Here’s a suggestion that would solve all problems: VOUCHERS. My suggestion would be to vote for candidates in public office that believe in a voucher system and would work to discontinue our current school zoning system. It obviously is not working properly. Then everyone can choose which school they want their child to attend. I believe that you would see better schools since they would be competing for your child’s registration.
not a problem on October 4th, 2008 6:14 pm

Not a problem at all…I live in Alabama and my daughter goes to Northview and she is “Alabama approved”. I have already told the Escambia County (FL) School Board if they would send me a bill for our “part”, I would gladly pay it. I will gladly pay $3,600 per year for my daughter to finish at Northview. Now keep in mind, we DO pay AL taxes (5% income tax) and property taxes. No, our property taxes are not as high as Florida, but 5% of your income toward state income taxes comes up to WAY more than $750 for me. So you can say that FL has higher taxes all you want…certainly not from my vantage point.

My solution – send all the AL parents a bill to pay in lieu of property taxes. NO PROBLEM AT ALL! Problem solved!!
Interested observer on October 4th, 2008 6:13 pm

It’s kind of funny to me that all of these people are talking about their tax money being used to educate Alabama kids. I live in Florida, and from my observations, because of homestead exemption, there are MANY people whose children attend Florida schools who pay little if any property taxes. So, what taxes are they talking about? I would venture to say that because of home values and many people who rent homes, over 1/2 of our students’ parents do not contribute to the schools via tax money anyway…………just an observation.
ehp on October 4th, 2008 4:57 pm

Dear Unknown,
Yes I do know that Al residents pay taxes even if they work in Fl. My main point is my husband and I pay $737.73 in taxes this year to the school board. Why in the Sam Hill should this money be used to educate Al students free of charge?
Furthermore I was an active parent and knew the Al students that went to school with my children and knew their parents and where they worked AND the majority were employed by International Paper, Solutia etc……. I never have begrudged anyone from another state finding employment in our state, my husband and I live in this area and know how hard it is to find employment where you can support your family properly!
Several years ago my husband’s employer in Fl sent him to work in Al and we had to pay Al taxes. I remember being quite bitter that my children’s classrooms at times were crowded with the extra students from Al who are getting basically a FREE education at the Fl taxpayers expense!
enough already on October 4th, 2008 3:55 pm

I do not have a child in any school in any state. My child has graduated and gone to college, and has moved on.

Why should I have to pay any taxes? Because that is the way it is. So let the youngons come to school in Fl., get an education and move on as well. They can do it on my dime, at least I can see a return on my money.

Where ever they go to school let them play ball , march in the band and get every scholarship they can. We all should praise them, pat them on the back, and wish them well.

The more students we have the more the classes that can be offered, so, is it all bad? I think not. So shut up, bow up, and get behind all the kids, or get out of the way.
Solution on October 4th, 2008 12:42 pm

I have read each and every comment posted. Several have asked to put a stop to name-calling and focus on the solution.

I have opinions, which I will share, but will also offer solutions.

Many have based their arguments with reasoning associated with taxes being paid from both states. Very good points have been made. However, I think a point can be made without considering the payment of taxes. 100 students were allowed to legally cross state-lines between Alabama and Florida. I understand this exchange was to be monitored and approved by the school board. It has been common for parents to bypass the aforementioned process and lie about their residency (i.e. having their name on a relative’s power bill, through claims of residency with relative, etc). It’s difficult to be sympathetic for parents that knowingly violated a process. These parents may present a good reasoning for their actions. However, the fact remains that they acted wrongly. It is not the responsibility of either Alabama or Florida school systems to allow their children to remain in the wrong schools. These students should return to their rightful schools immediately.

For those Alabama parents that pursued the “lawful” process to allow their children to be submitted to Florida school…good job! As many have mentioned, your children should not be caught in the middle of the process. You acted correctly and should not be caught up in the consequences. With the 100 student exchange ending, so will the phase-out of students crossing state lines.

Concerning the administration of Northview, Ernest Ward and Bratt Schools, you also have accountability with these issues. Many have challenged that Alabama student headcounts exceed 100 among these three schools. It has been suggested that a truly accurate headcount of Alabama students cannot be found to be truly accurate. The reason being, multiple parents have lied about their residency. It’s been further challenged that administration “looked the other way” while accepting “illegal” Alabama students in interest of increased school funding. If any of the above is proven, those responsible parties should be relieved of their positions. If they cannot administer these schools within proper guidelines, they should not allowed to hold those positions.

Both the Escambia County Florida and Escambia County Alabama School Boards have an obvious responsibility with these issues. They will soon be faced with the closing of Carver Elementary / Middle School in Century. Because Century is somewhat closer to Flomaton, it is anticipated that many Century students will attempt to flee to Flomaton. Escambia County Alabama and Flomaton have an obligation to protect against the overcrowding of Flomaton Schools. As this occurs, Century students will travel to both Bratt and Ernest Ward. It would not be fair to the citizens of Florida to be faced with incoming Century students AND “illegal” Alabama students. Escambia County Florida School Board has an obligation in this process. Their obligation should be focused upon the best interest of Florida residents NOT Alabama residents. By the way, would Carver Elementary be faced with closing if the volume of tax dollars were spent on Florida students only….and not incoming Alabama students?
unknown on October 4th, 2008 10:22 am

eph I think you need to study up on your state taxes. If you live in Alabama, but work in Florida, you still pay Alabama state tax. You pay tax to the state you live in. Also, if you live in Florida and work in Alabama, the Floridian has to pay Alabama state tax. But, I do agree that a fee should be applied for crossing the state line for the children’s education.

I know these facts because I do payroll for a local company. The only way an employee does not pay state taxes is if they live in Florida and work in Florida.

Also, most of the Alabama parents sending there kids to Florida schools DO NOT work in Florida. They work in Alabama. You must not know many of the Alabama children. So you see, regardless Alabama residents are paying state taxes. But as a Floridian, I do feel that a fee should be applied.
ehp on October 4th, 2008 7:10 am

Just thought I’d put my two cents in for what it’s worth. Having raised two children in the florida local (Bratt, Ernest Ward, Northview) schools. The present facts are these: Al students are allowed to attend Fl schools tuition free, most of their parents work in the great state of Fl. Since we are blessed to have a big enough tourism industry we do not have to pay any state taxes. This also means the Al resident has to pay no state taxes. Other than buying groceries and goods at walmart in Fl. They pay virually NO taxes to help support the schools where their children are being fully educated for free.

The second part to this story is if you work in the state of AL even if you live in the state of FL you get to pay taxes to educate their children and pave their roads and pick up their trash.
In short if you live in Fl and own land it should be okay that people from another state get their children educated for free. Oh and by the way, they don’t have to pay any taxes to help educate our children, pave our roads, and pick up our trash!

If the people of Al truly want to send their kids to schools in Florida then maybe if they owned land (paid taxes on it like we have to do) in Fl, or paid a tuition this might be a little easier to swallow.
Student! on October 3rd, 2008 9:17 pm

Okay, all this nonsense needs to stop. All of you parents are fussing over nothing!
You should want the best for every single child no matter if they live in Alabama or Florida! In the world today you have to have a good education to live life! So why not be helpful, and help somebody out! All this tax business is nonsense to if the enrollment at a school decreased or increased it wouldn’t matter!You would still pay the same taxes! Think about the student,

1.You are moving them from their classes, and studies!
2.You are taking them away from their friends!
3.Alabama teaches way diiferent than Florida!
Ex.) Thy may be way ahead of what Florida schools are teaching or they could be behind!

Why put the students through this mess? Your only hurting them, you aren’t gonna pay more or less if enrollment increases or decreases! So it really doesn’t matter!

THiNK OF THE “STUDENT”, BEFORE YOU OR YOUR TAXES! Also there was mentioned that an Alabama student could take away from the Florida student getting a scholarship or making a team! —–> If they are gonna get the spot on the team or a scholarship they would get it any way!

So I am saying as a STUDENT, you parents are being very immature!
Student on October 3rd, 2008 5:18 pm

Dear Facts Only,
Do you have children attending public schools? Have your children attended public alabama schools? Do you attend a FL or AL public school?
Discipline problems have increased because of the way adults are acting. It’s not the school’s fault, neither is it the students that attend school. I am not a trouble maker at school. And I attend where there’s AL, FL, and foreign exchange students. So that’s not where the discipline problem comes in. Our classrooms aren’t too terribly small. And they aren’t overloaded. The Constitution was written way back when. Things have changed. They probably didn’t have selfish people, like we do today, not wanting kids to get a good education. I personally think that there should be a vote taken at schools, to see whether or not this is really a big deal or not. But the parent’s should be supportive of kids getting an education, no matter where it is. And the majority of these parents obviously are not.
Lucy Beth on October 3rd, 2008 5:07 pm

Y does it matter so much!?! I go to FL schools with AL kids and it doesn’t really matter i mean as long as their parents are paying some kind of taxes it all equals out. It isn’t like only FL people are the only ones allowed to go to the beach just because they are the ones that pay for it.
Florida Mother on October 3rd, 2008 4:15 pm

Not posting to argue or to degrade anyone and I am sorry if I have offended anyone, I was just putting in my 2 cents in as everyone else. I would like to say that this I childern’s first year being shuffled and I am sorry that your son was shuffled that many years, but it sounds as if he done fine with it and I am proud for him and your family, however my daughter isn’t that lucky, she struggles and needs extra help in the classroom, and they won’t put her into special classes.so that causes concern for me and I only speak for myself.Having said that their maybe “SOME” FL parents that may just be trying to have the childern taken out, but thats not at all what I’m trying to do. JUST WANTED TO CLEARIFLY THAT.I have friends that their children attend our schools and my heart goes out to them and to the parents.I’m sorry I’m just concerned for my children.
unknown on October 3rd, 2008 3:03 pm

This is not the first year classes had to be shuffled. My son is a senior this year. They were shuffling classes back when he went to Bratt. I seems to be that “SOME” Florida parents are just thinking of ways to take these kids out of Florida schools. I am a Florida mother and some of you are being pathetic. There is more to worry about right now. Such as Obama gettting President.
Florida Mother on October 3rd, 2008 2:55 pm

As I said before I’m for the best education for all children where ever they live, I wouldn’t have a problem with any children attending our schools if we had the extra room,and I agree charge them a fee, because we do pay alot higher land tax , it just causes concern as I said before, I took my daughter to school on the first day and was told that she may shuffle around because the classrooms are overloaded, I mean what if the tables were turned and it was our students attending Al schools and the classrooms were overloaded its not fair to the students” being Al or Fl ” nor to the teachers trying to teach them.And about the tax issue of course if Carver students have to attend Bratt, EWMS looks like we will have to add on for more room, so most likely our taxes will rise once again.
Maggie on October 3rd, 2008 2:54 pm

nhs fan or Angela Brown, whichever you prefer to go by: If you are so concerned about the high Florida property taxes…maybe you should consider moving to Alabama. You did say they have quality education and low taxes. As for me, I am not bothered by the fact that others have received benefits from my taxes. I have to pay them anyway. I was always taught that it’s good to help your neighbors. My children’s closest friends are from Alabama. I think it should be left alone.
Facts Only on October 3rd, 2008 2:46 pm

I have read with interest the various comments concerning students crossing state lines to receive an education. I would like to offer my thoughts.

According to the U.S. Constitution, all powers NOT granted to the federal government NOR denied to them, SHALL BE RESERVED FOR THE STATES. In terms for the layman, that simply means that if something isn’t mentioned in the U.S. Constitution, the powers lie with the state governments. For this very reason, providing an education lies with the states, NOT the federal government. The only reason the federal government has any “say-so” in educational affairs is because they offer grants/funding with “purse strings” attached. The PRIMARY way that states fund schools, however, is through local/state tax dollars. Since that is the case, I see things as follows:

-Alabama citizens pay LOCAL/STATE taxes (which fund the majority of their education budget)

-Florida citizens pay LOCAL/STATE taxes (which fund the majority of their education budget)

-Alabama tax rates are VERY low — almost the lowest in the nation.

-Florida tax rates are VERY high.

-If our founding fathers had wanted “nationalized” education, they would have included it in the Constitution. They didn’t. So …………

Florida citizens are losing. “Foreign” students are attending the schools at no cost and as a result, classroom sizes increase. When class sizes are large, discipline problems increase. And when that happens, the educational environment is not conducive to optimal learning. ALL of the students lose.
unknown on October 3rd, 2008 2:19 pm

I am a Florida mother and my children go to Florida schools. I work in Alabama and always have. Therefore, I pay Florida taxes and Alabama taxes. Does this mean that I need to find a job in Florida so I won’t be taking an Alabama job? I don’t think so!!!! What would be the difference if we left the children where they were at and had the parents pay a fee to the State of Florida. That way the parents that send there children to Florida schools would be making up for the taxes that are not paid since they don’t live in Florida.
just been watching on October 3rd, 2008 1:46 pm

Have been reading post for last two days and the only thing I have gotten out of this is there are many people out there that think so little of themselves and their children they have to put down everybody and everything else around them.
Nothing has come from this but the fact you have self appointed vigilantes in our communities. And those not from your community are having a good laugh at how childish this has been. Grow up and communicate with each other
Alabama Defender on October 3rd, 2008 12:42 pm

To those who have referenced their children being behind academically when they enter Fl schools, let us set the record straight. There are different courses of study when it comes to our seperate school districts. One student from an Al school might be on track to master a certain skill in the 5th grade, but in a Fl school that same student may have covered that previously in the 4th grade. The same applies to the Al student. He may cover something in the 6th grade that Fl students don’t receive until the 7th grade. We need to understand that these educators are professionals. They are no better, or no worse, if they come from Fl or from Al. Also, all school systems are training your children to achieve a common goal, to be prepared for college, graduate, and become productive citizens of “our” country, not county. When we all spend time in this forum lashing out about a particular teacher, school, or each other, we lose site of what’s important. It’s really not that important where we attend school, it is important that we do support the school we attend, and leave others alone to their own devices. True enough, the environment they have to learn in affects their experience, but the books, teachers, and material vary little from school to school. I suspect for ” Baloney Man” that his daughter probably falls into this category, and not because the teacher at EA failed to train her properly. I also suspect that catching up is also hard to do when you snatch your child out of a familiar environment with friends, and place them somewhere new and strange to them.
janna on October 3rd, 2008 11:29 am

We have also forgotten about the kids that are trecked over the Escambia/Baldwin county line to attend Perdido school…wonder how many of them are there? Thsi will never end unless someone puts a stop to it I know a lady now that used to reside in the Baldwin County area…she now lives in Escambia county but her child is still taken to school down there. I know it would be hard for the counties to go check on every student, but somehow they should. Escambia schools also loose students to the area Christian schools, so there are plenty of places for them to attend….if you can afford it. I checked on one of the local Christian schools about 2 years ago…it was UNREAL what they wanted to go there, plus you had so many rules to abide by….like the parents couldn’t wear certain things, couldn’t listen to certain kinds of music etc etc etc. I know then that was NOT the way to go. i hate this for all involved, especially the kids. They just need to go to school somewhere because in our time now, they will not go far without a high school diploma.
nhs fan on October 3rd, 2008 10:58 am

AM, you are so wrong. More students in Florida schools means higher taxes for its residents. Obviously, you don’t live in Florida and are paying much lower taxes in Alabama. These illegal students’ parents are reaping the benefits from both states. Low taxes in Alabama and good schools in Florida. So yes, there is a reason to argue!
AM on October 3rd, 2008 10:50 am

ok so really what is the harm in alabama kids going to florida schools? if you think about it more kids at a school means more funding for that school. Everyone is causing an argument when it isnt necessary…!!!
Mother of Three on October 3rd, 2008 10:47 am

JD,
Why would someone send their child 20 miles away to school instead of driving them 3 miles? You answered your own question. They would have to DRIVE them. If Century/Carver closes, a school bus will come by every day and pick up the Century/Carver chldren and take them to Bratt/ Ernest Ward just as school buses do now for the children that are attending Northview from Century. The children that I have seen attending Flomaton that don’t live in the Flomaton district actually live in Atmore. I know of several that attended Bratt and Ernest Ward who now attend Flomaton who live in Atmore.
Huh? on October 2nd, 2008 10:31 pm

Baloney,

Did your daughter struggle but still make a/b? did she ever fail a class? where’s the way behind that you talk about? sounds like sour grapes to me. the folks at that school have worked very hard this year. if you’re in florida now, leave them alone and hope you get to stay with us.
janna on October 2nd, 2008 10:30 pm

Why don’t we integrate the two schools and have the first FLORABAMA school and educate everyone in this end of both counties. Hire only the HIGHEST qualified teachers and administrators…the best of both worlds, no matter where you live or which state you pay taxes in…put it down near the AL/FL line…have part of the school on Flland and part on the AL side…worth looking into wouldn’t ya say? For those who don’t like what’s being posted here, don’t read the site…free speech is just that. Nobody is saying their child is better than another. I have read all of the comments too and that is nowhere in here. We are saying this has been going on forever…it should have never started. I know people living near Flomaton that can’t get their kids in Flomaton schools because they live in Atmore, why should they be allowed to go to another state? Why should kids that live outside of a state have to pay out of state tuition to go to a college? Just let anyone go for the same price…it will add up evertually if their parents aren’t paying taxes for that particular state. ALOT of kids are spoiled these days, if they don’t want to go to a certain school or they don;’t like it, the parents pull them out and away they go, right down to FL. Back in our day, it didn’t matter what you liked, it’s what you got that was offered and you were glad to have it. Boy, times have sure changed. I had a parent tell me, as I’m sure you’ve heard over and over….my child went for a few days and he/she didn’t like it, so I went and “got me a piece of land and stuck a light pole on it.” In todays time, I can hardly spend money on a piece of land and another power bill, things are expensive enough. Could it be something to do with status? That’s the only thing I can really think of. If you knew the teachers in Atmore and their history and background, you will find that your child could hardly do better than to have them for a teacher. I am PROUD of the education my children got in Atmore…both made excellent grades and are good role models for others. They have manners too, something LONG GONE these days. I’m sorry this has turned into such a mess, but the person/s involved in this all these years can thank themselves.
JD-In Flomaton on October 2nd, 2008 10:25 pm

OK- Everyone missed the boat on this issue. Mr. Arnold leads you down the wrong road on this one with his comment “By and large, the decision to end this agreement had to do more with the Alabama system losing students to Florida,” The decision made by the ESCSB in Alabama had less to do with children from Alabama attending Florida schools as it does with Florida children attending one particular school/schools in Alabama.— On Monday, August 25th an email was sent to the editor of this newspaper concerning the comments made by the ECSB in Florida over the proposed closing of Carver/Century and the relocation of the students to Bratt and Ernest Ward. Also, the comments posted by the parents in the Bratt and Walnut Hill areas and their concerns of these students lowering their schools grading just as they had at Carver/Century. The concern was not over their relocation to Bratt and Ernest Ward, but to Flomaton. Yes I said FLOMATON. Why would a parent send his or her child 20 miles away to school when they could easily drive them 3 miles across the line to Flomaton. The editor replied to the email stating he was working on a story about this issue, but was waiting on numbers from the ESCSB in Alabama to publish it. Upon receiving the editor’s replay a phone call was made to Mr. Billy Hines, the Superintendent in Alabama. A long discussion over the current number of students from the Century area already attending the schools in Flomaton, lack of curriculums due to budget restraints and overcrowding caused by the current influx of out of state students. Also discussed was the crisis awaiting us one year from now when the Carver/Century school closed and those students began taking the drive to Flomaton. He discussed the current reciprocating agreement and said there wasn’t much he could do unless it was agreed by both school boards to abolish it. He also mentioned the number of students attending Florida schools from Atmore. Upon completing that phone call, Flomaton parents were encouraged to make the same phone call and ask Mr. Hines to work to stop any future influx of students from the Century area and it seems he has made the first step. We are sorry that children from the Atmore are a casualty in this, but our schools in Flomaton are strained enough as it is and we had to act; just as you would (as seen from the previous comments last month on the school closure). Kudos Mr. Hines!!!
Smilie on October 2nd, 2008 10:11 pm

Student – I think you said it right! If you are actually a student, then you are alot wiser than most of the parents on this site.
Huh? on October 2nd, 2008 10:11 pm

Enough, what does EA recruiting have to do with this discussion? We are talking about Florida students.
CB on October 2nd, 2008 9:55 pm

I live in Alabama and send my children to Florida schools. My wife and I chose to send our children to these schools, it was not their choice, but they are glad that we made this choice. The last time I checked my payroll check stubs( civilian and United State Air Force Reserve), I pay federal and state ( Alabama) taxes. I stated that to make this point, my children brought home federal cards for us to fill out, and by me being in the military helps my children’s schools get federal funds.
Next my child was questioned why he was attending a Flordia school since he lives in Alabama by the Dean of the school. My child was also told that if he /she did not like something then he/she should go back to Alabama by the principal of the same school. This question and comment should not have been made to the student.
Next on whether a child from AL or FL is a better athlete, the coach chooses who is the best player to play for him or her. The coach does not worry where the athlete comes from but chooses him or her on athletic ability.
Ashley on October 2nd, 2008 9:49 pm

Maybe I have not made myself clear (which is hard to believe). I believe that the children from AL currently going to FL should be allowed to finish their education (completely in the current state they are in). I do not believe that I have jumped any fences where that is concerned. I would however love to hear other solutions that do not directly hurt the children in this situation. I do not feel that I am the smartest person, nor do I have all the answers, so I would love for someone to come forward with more solutions.
I actually do have 2 children and considering I am quoting Dr. Suess should have made that apparent. I also believe that in a lot of instances children are smarter than us adults. We teach them to mediate instead of mud-sling, we teach them to treat each other with respect and as equally as possible, we teach them to be open to ideas and accept when they are wrong… yet what are we doing on this site. I would love to quote something enlightening from some great prophet…. but I think Dr. Suess seems more appropriate in this situation since the most IMPORTANT thing is the CHILDREN. I am sorry if Horton offends you….. you must be the Kangaroo
Sad on October 2nd, 2008 9:10 pm

And we wonder why the world is in such turmoil. I think it is quite obvious that many adults have way too much time on their hands. This is a sad situation for the community. I think adults have allowed this situation to get way out of hand and I can’t believe the accusations that have been made.

I agree that these adults are not thinking about the children and the remark about raising children with morals,etc. seems funny coming from an adult with such anger – what example do you think you are setting for your children?

I guess I am confused about all of the talk about EA. If there is a parent living in Florida and chooses to send their children to EA, why should anything concerning the public schools in either AL or FL be of concern to them? It sounds to me like this person has a personal vendetta and is only thinking of their self -interests.

Teenagers everywhere are reading this site. We have a tendency to get angry at teenagers when they act their age, but the sad thing is when they act their age they are acting like the adults on this site.

I would say to everyone, make sure that everything in your life is in order, example – gossip, not paying your bills, bitterness, anger, the list could go on -before you start pointing your finger at others. If your children are healthy and you are able to feed them and kiss them goodnight then count yourself blessed and concern yourself with the important things in life.
chs fan (blackcat pride) on October 2nd, 2008 8:08 pm

Ashley, you are such a fence jumper! One minute you are for Alabama kids going to Florida and the next minute you are quoting Dr. Suess! Give me a break! Maybe you should get off the website. You obviously don’t have children!
Ashley on October 2nd, 2008 8:01 pm

I agree that this should probably be shut down. It seems most are more worried about being right and defending their grammer/speech. There are no alternate solutions being said. Stop worrying about being right and worry about the children in this…… what is that saying… it takes a village to raise a child?!? Does it really matter what village it is? Come on people… give ideas, suggestions, constructive examples, leave the name calling, tattling, etc. to the children. We are the big people…. we are supposed to help solve this situation peacefully, not throw rocks at each other.

I stand by the Dr. Suess suggestion….. “A person’s a person, no matter how small” – Horton the Elephant
Enough on October 2nd, 2008 7:40 pm

Escambia Academy your recruiting of potential students is pretty much shot at this point.
Student on October 2nd, 2008 6:41 pm

For all of you big babies complaining about AL students going to school in FL and FL students going to school in AL get over yourselves. You guys are just complaining over nothing. You’re supposed to be the adults in this situation, but you’re definitely not acting like adults. For those of you complaining about paying taxes for the kids, well, no matter who goes to what school, you’ll still have to pay taxes. EVERYBODY pays taxes. Big deal. It’s like you don’t want these kids to have an education. Maybe your kid isn’t number 1 in their class. Well who’s fault is that? Or maybe your kid doesn’t start in a varsity sport. Did you ever think that they weren’t good enough? And for the person who said something about “See you later, all you atmorons”, have you ever been called a floridiot? It’s not what you’d want to be called, now is it?
I have absolutely no problem with AL kids attending my school. And the parent’s don’t even go to these schools. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”. If you’re child wasn’t happy in a FL school and they wanted to go to an AL school, you wouldn’t want your child to be pushed away like you’re pushing these students away.
So, don’t get your panties in a wad over this.
There’s bigger stuff out there, like possibly having a President that won’t pledge to our flag. Think about it.
chs fan (blackcat pride) on October 2nd, 2008 6:30 pm

Here’s a solution to everyone’s problem. Why not send all the Atmore students to Carver/Century and re-open Century High School. After all, they want a Florida school education and Century is the oldest Florida town in Escambia County. And it would help keep Carver from closing! How would they like that? Oh, I forgot, there are black children there too, just like Atmore. I guess that wouldn’t work, unless they aren’t prejudice like they claim. GO BLACKCATS!!!!!!!!!!! WE’VE GOT BLACKCAT PRIDE! WE’VE GOT BLACKCAT PRIDE!!!!!!!!!
Single Mother of three on October 2nd, 2008 6:24 pm

First of all I would like to say that I have read every comment posted and most of the comments that are coming from parents are disgraceful. What are we teaching our children? For those who say that parents are setting a bad example for their children by lying about their address, how is that any different that what is being said about the children that you are saying we should be setting a good example for? Education is what should be important. It should not matter where they go or where they come from. The education that is given today is setting our children up for the rest of their lives. Why shouldn’t the parent have the choice of where they go? Who is to say that one of the kids that are in this community will not be president one day? Leading the COUNTRY. Maybe we need to step back and take a look at the bigger picture. We are supposed to be a “nation”…what happened to the “United States of America”? Our children stand up everyday and say the pledge of allegiance. They are not saying a pledge to AL or a pledge to FL; they are saying one for our country. Maybe we should be required to say it ourselves every day to remind us that we are one people, regardless of what state we come from. Being from AL does not make kids dumb, just as being from FL does not make them smarter. The children in EVERY community deserve the right to a good education. They deserve the best that their parents can offer to them.
I live in Atmore; I am a single mom, with three kids in the FL school system. I would gladly move to FL to be able to let my kids get on and off the bus at my front door, but cannot afford to do so. I get up every morning and drive my kids to school, pick them up every afternoon…I raise money for the FL schools with the fundraisers, I join the PTA…My son has been top of his class for the past 3 years and made the highest score possible on his FCAT last year. All 3 of my children are straight A students. Will I put their education in jeopardy all because I cannot afford to move 2 miles into FL. Absolutely not. I tried the Atmore schools. My kids hated it. Not only were they not challenged in their education, but they begged me everyday not to make them go. Since they have started in FL, 3 years ago, they have not a missed a day, and wake up before me to get ready for school!! My children are MY top priority…they are my purpose. It is my responsibility to make sure they grow up healthy, happy, with good morals, and get the BEST education that is possible to ensure they can make it once they become adults. I will not put my kids into a school where they are miserable. With the drop out rates the way they are, WE should do EVERYTHING we can to ensure that our kids are getting the best possible education there is. I emphasize WE because it is ALL of our children are growing up to be leaders of this country that we live in. They will be making the decisions that will determine the fate of this country and to me that should matter. I believe that every child, no matter how rich, how poor, from what state…it doesn’t matter. They deserve the chance to make something of themselves. They deserve the chance at a good education even if their parents can’t afford to move into the “right” state or send them to private school. My children are what matters to me most in this world, and I will do whatever it takes to make sure they have every chance that they deserve. There are too many parents out there that don’t give one single thought to what kind of education their children get. I think it is really demeaning to slander the parents that care and would go through all the trouble to see that their children have a good one.

Bottom line…it is about the children…after all…they are the next generation to lead this country…and yes we will still be alive to see it happen. What kind of education do you want your next leaders to have???
caring for the children on October 2nd, 2008 6:06 pm

well if we are going to talk about teaching our children right from wrong using their parents as an example…. IF you drove any place today, did you follow the speed limit? I mean if your going to get right down to it a law is a law so all of those low life law breaking immoral parents that are raising common criminals, by trying to get them an education and mind you ,we are talking about at least 100 of them that have permission to bring them to an out of state school, what did you teach your child today? Did you drive 55 in a 45 zone? Did you tell a bill collector the check was in the mail? Did you talk on your cell phone while driving today.. I mean you are talking about the law here! I guess we better build many new jails cause we all might be visiting someone there soon. And the shamming that I spoke of earlier was not directed to EA it was directed to the parents who made shamming comments. EA is a great school but not everyone has the ability to utilize it. Atmore has many good qualities. And the FL schools have a lot to offer. Each family knows whats best for their child. Everyone has alot of passion about this subject, just keep the passion for the children. Its about them.
nhs fan on October 2nd, 2008 6:06 pm

By the way, “CARING” , not paying your income tax or property tax is also illegal. Sure hope you’re not doing that!
tired of Atmore students on October 2nd, 2008 5:49 pm

Sorry, that was directed to “caring for the children” not “concerned”.
tired of Atmore students on October 2nd, 2008 5:48 pm

So as long as crimes are committed for moral reasons or for the benefit of children, then it’s okay? Is that what you, “concerned”, teach YOUR children? I certainly hope not. Because jails are full of people who are there because they thought they were doing the “best” thing at the time. I would rather my child be an honest person who can actually function in society and not baby them to death by lying for them just so they won’t have to go to a “bad” school. Please.
caring for the children on October 2nd, 2008 5:35 pm

I think that our local FL and AL schools are all part of the same community. Unless I am mistaken when I see local businesses names on sports items and sponsors in year books. I have often seen FL cheerleaders in the “ATMORE” christmas parade and many local events. I have seen children from ALL local schools “FL AND AL” giving carwashes and fundraisers for their sports teams or other events. Many held in Atmore, and the community in a whole no matter where their child goes to school helps these children. You can turn this subject around any way you like. And you can read it how ever you choose, but the fact is they are all our children and they are being tought many wrongs in this perfect world of yours. So why chose to tell them that their parents are morons, and liers, and don’t really care about them just to prove a point. I don’t think that the first thing a parent says to them self is “lets cheat the system” its WHATS BEST FOR MY CHILD AND HOW DO I ACCOMPLISH THAT? Most of you are makeing this an issue about your feelings and not looking at it from the real world. If my child attended a private school or a out of state school and I am paying my taxes , then some child is still benifitting from my money and it wont be me. But in the end a child has learned something, and it may be a child whos parent doesn’t pay any taxes any where. So we all lose if you think of it that way. Should we stop children from going to ANY school if their parent never pays property tax or income tax. ect? Think about it!!
Jane Doe on October 2nd, 2008 5:31 pm

There seems to be a reading comprehension problem here. William clearly states in his rules for leaving a comment: (1) Be Nice. No comments that slander another, no racism, no sexism, no personal attacks. I am a school teacher. I clearly understand that rule. (The state I teach in doesn’t matter. The state my child attends school in doesn’t matter. The education……..that is what matters.)
Florida Parent on October 2nd, 2008 5:17 pm

The ones telling the others they need to learn how to spell need to check their on spelling before they try to correct someone else.
Truthteller on October 2nd, 2008 5:17 pm

I believe the only “shaming” being done is directed at the parents. Not the students. I was only taking up for our school because of the obvious references to children being behind in their academics. Don’t compare education levels if you don’t wish to be challenged on the facts. I choose to sacrifice for my children’s sake to send them to EA. I think a lot of people can afford the tuition but choose to spend their money elsewhere, that is there choice. I do believe the economy has had a lot to do with recent withdrawals from our school, and that I understand. I love our school, I do not hold any animosity for NW Fl schools.
unknown on October 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm

I think this has gotten out of hand. I think northescambia.com needs to get rid of this page. This is only causing the issue to get worse. There is enough hard feelings as it is.
tired of Atmore students on October 2nd, 2008 5:08 pm

Wrong, “caring for children”, it is not your choice where your kids go to PUBLIC school! Not according to the two school boards! And how are we educating our children by teaching them that it is okay to lie, as long as they are benefitted in the end. That’s insane! Teaching children that they must make the best of certain situations and to step up and make their OWN community a better place is a much better lesson. Don’t you think!?
caring for the children on October 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm

I just wanted to say that many of you have been ignoring the real issue here. Our children. We have heard comments about Money, taxes, sports, ect. But very little about the “CHILDREN”. What we have heard is that many of you who care SO MUCH about the children think they are Atmorons, liars, and should be punished by stopping there current education, because of the sins of the parents. LETS SEE WHO MAY WE ASK TO STEP UP AND CAST THE FIRST STONE? I mean with all this “I’m Telling on this one and that” surely we must have a Saint among us or maybe a few, The last thing most of you are talking about is whats best for the children. No matter where your child gets their Education, they will still be part of this community and country. Their parent is still paying taxes some place, and how they use their abilities will in some way effect us in the future. If the schools are only worried about this issue because of the money, they are being selfish. And if children have to leave one school because they can’t afford the tuition, why should they be shamed by that school for something they can not control. ITS NOT ABOUT YOU! ITS ABOUT THEM! To many statements made that are uncalled for, and are made by so called caring parents. If a parent wants to give their child an education lets start HERE. How many of your children will be reading this , and how will they start treating their peers after seeing the comments about them? Think about the whole picture. Just wanted to add my 2 cents.. because I have 3 children of my own. And they will get the best education i can give them NO MATTER WHERE THEY GO!! Its my choice.
Mother of Three on October 2nd, 2008 4:07 pm

Hooty Who, before you talk about FL parents’ spelling and sentences, you might want to check your own grammar and punctuation. I believe they teach that in English, too. You can’t tell when someone is talking to you if they know how to spell something correctly, but bad grammar is blatantly obvious.
Mother of Three on October 2nd, 2008 3:58 pm

There is a School of Choice commitee or department or something in the Escambia County, FL School District. Those AL children that were legally attending FL schools had to have letters written stating why it would be more beneficial for the child to attend school in FL. The transfer would have to be approved by this committee before it would take place. That is for those who are going legally. Most folks just use someone’s address in FL. Whether the child was attending from EA, ECHS, ECMS, or any other out of state school, they would have to be approved by School of Choice or find a way around the system.
KLB on October 2nd, 2008 3:53 pm

With all due respect, IF it is true that EA’s principal went before the school board, please tell me how one can expect EA not to be thrown into this so-called border war??

Also, to the person who remarked about FL people making mistakes misspelling words, etc., I have seen a few misspellings from the AL people as well. Just thought I’d point out that we’re all human and make mistakes!
tired of Atmore students on October 2nd, 2008 3:52 pm

Confused-no one monitored them. Most of them slipped in using a false address. There are WELL OVER 100 students enrolled in our schools. The EA students just added to that. The county does have a visiting teacher, but the northend is so far from the county office that it is very easy for the lies to go unnoticed. I have had plenty of parents from Atmore admitt to me that they have lied. Just ask the parents of the former EA students. You might be surprised how easily these and other “Christian” parents can lie right to your face.
Confused on October 2nd, 2008 3:46 pm

Let me see if I understand this correctly. EA students have left Atmore to attend NHS instead of enrolling in the Escambia Alabama public school system? Did these students get “special permission” also to cross “the border”? If so, from whom–since they are not a part of the public school system? And how did that affect those “100″ who were “legally” allowed to leave the system? Also, who monitored those “100″ from Alabama to make sure the number didn’t increase from year to year–since 1999? Answers, anyone?
tired of Atmore students on October 2nd, 2008 3:42 pm

If you saw someone stealing something, driving drunk, destroying property, etc. would you not report it to the proper authorites? Then how is it any different when these parents break the law by lying about their residence? And boo hoo for the kids who will have to leave! Their parents should not have lied. I am all for turning in names! The law is the law! So do us all a favor and go back to your own schools! We would be better off and so would they!
William on October 2nd, 2008 3:25 pm

Let’s keep comments focused on the immediate subject of the story: the agreement between the two counties being revoked. EA perhaps does become part of the discussion, but it is a private school, not part of the public governments that are making this decision.

Let’s stay away from this child is better than that child type comments.

William, Admin
hooty who on October 2nd, 2008 3:08 pm

I believe that all these harsh remarks are uncalled for. It really got out of hand. I think the children should be able to go, where the parents are willing to take them. Atleast some of us care about our kids’ education. Most of the FL comments have been misspelled and doesn’t even make a complete sentence. Maybe you need to spend more time studying spelling and English before you try to get into other people’s business. As long as you focus on your family, why does it matter? You should feel priviledged that you have families wanting to attend your jurisdiction. Some of us don’t have it so lucky.
BALONEY on October 2nd, 2008 3:08 pm

That sounds more like LIE TELLER than truth teller. My daughter struggled for weeks to catchup after moving her from EA to Ernest Ward. She never made below an “A” at EA and when she transferred to EW, she was WAY behind in all subjects. At the time, I talked with others that had made the switch and they were all finding the same results. She is now an “A/B” student, but only because she studies extremely hard!

We had always heard that EA was superior in academics, now it appears we just wasted our money, which is what many other people are finding out and that is why they are leaving in droves! EA is doing good to keep their doors open this year because of the poor academics and extremely poor discipline.

You folks are sadly mistaken, the AL schools (private and public) can not hold a candle to the academics, discipline and environment of the FL schools. And it is because of this AND NOT race, that we send our kids to the FL schools.
Truthteller on October 2nd, 2008 2:39 pm

I have asked around about the great desparity in NW Fl schools and local Al schools, and the claims that Al students are behind. Lets be clear about whom is behind. Students leaving EA that tend to struggle at EA somehow do quite well at NW Fl schools. Is that because the curriculum at EA is inferior. I don’t think that makes much sense. We have had students whom have worked hard to just pass and leave to go to Northview and make the academic allstar list 4 years running. Behind, I don’t think so. Our high school students have left recently because the graduation requirements in Fl are less than Al requires. Seniors left this year, and because of the credits they had acquited, they only had to take one or two classes the entire year. One student has 5 (count them) 5 PE classes to fill his day. There’s an academic desparity for you. The work load on EA students is heavy, they are challenged every day, be it with homework, pop tests, regular tests,etc. They are also challenged with Math team competitions, oratorical competitions, art competitions, and many others. Our children love to be challenged. I want this forum to know, beyond a shadow of a doubt an education at EA is tops in this area. You may not have as much to choose from, ie orginizations, clubs, etc, but the numbers prove the work is being done. Our seniors consistently receive on avg $30,000 in scholarships or more. Our ACT scores are tops in this area. Our scholars bowl teams compete in state competitions with public and private schools from across the state, from magnet schools in Mobile to prep schools in Birmingham and place in the top 10%. These are schools with thousands of students, we have less than 200. Say what you want to about the border issue, but leave us out of it, our teachers, administration, parents, and children are happy and thriving. Our school has had struggles this past year, but we are recovering. We choose to send our children there first because it is a family with a Christian environment, and second because of the educational opportunities. . If you choose to go elsewhere, that is your business, but keep our school out of your border war. For those who have left us, we will welcome you back, we have a home for you at EA, not just a building.
Mother of Three on October 2nd, 2008 1:56 pm

Bratt Man, let’s be nice. These are children we are talking about. I wouldn’t mind allowing the children that have been in our FL schools to continue their education until they graduate. Those that have been here for most of their education already. For those that swarmed us this year, most of which are from EA, how did they feel having to leave all their friends at their old school? Some of these children are in 5th grade and have been with the same people all their lives and are suddenly at Bratt. I can guarantee that when their parents get their first taste of The Wicked Witch of the South, they will be running back to Ms. Warren with their tails tucked between their legs. If it weren’t for the great teachers we have at Bratt, I’d homeschool my children just so we would never have to deal with our power hungry dictator of a principal.
Alabama Parent on October 2nd, 2008 1:43 pm

I can’t believe that a grown up would call children morons. This should not be a reason to attack our children. I live in Alabama and my children are attending Florida schools legally. They are there because I want them to have a good education. They did not make the choice to go to Florida schools, I made that choice. So don’t attack my child because they work hard, make good grades, and are atheletic. Every school system has problems. I work in the Escambia County Fl school system and I see the students come from Alabama. They struggle to catch up even if they were A students. This tells me that something is wrong in Alabama schools. I know personally of Florida parents that have sent their children to Alabama schools just so they could pass. Now I don’t see anyone talking about that.

I see why Atmore wants their students back. There is a problem and dragging students that are doing well back over there is not going to fix the problem. If I am prepared to spend $100 a week in gas for my child to get an education, don’t you think that I would spend just as much to send them to a private school. You pull our children from Florida and you loose students as well as teachers. You also loose hard working students that are helping test scores. If children have spent their whole lives in Florida schools leave them alone. Cut off any more coming but leave the ones who are already there alone!!!
janna on October 2nd, 2008 1:38 pm

Atmore has not only GREAT teachers, but they are wonderful people and role models for our children. With 2 kids having already graduated from ECHS, I have to say they both got FINE educations there. I never saw the need to cross the line for them to attend a “better” school. EA has great teachers too, WELL educated AND FINE people also. Atmore parents have the choice of sending their kids to public or private schools, but at least they stay in the state. I would NOT hesitate to send another child through the Atmore schools because I know what a child gets from school is what he or she wants to get from it. I know families that have educated their children in Atmore public schools since k-5 and now that person is out in the world making six figure incomes….also went to 4 year universities. If your child is there to learn and not play, visit, etc…they will learn. The principals and boards of the Fl schools have been letting this go on for YEARS people, this is NOT something new. Somebody FINALLY decided to do something about it. Yes, you can homeschool your child instead of sending them to public schools, but I can tell you this….UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED to teach your child, they will be behind. I have worked in the AL schools and have seen it over and over. I am really curious to learn the names of the juveniles that “attacked” the Academy…just to see where they came from. I BET they are from fine families….they can;’t be held accountable for the juveniles actions, NOR can you hold a “school” responsible for the actions of others. We have fine schools all around this area…your child gets what they want to get out of it. I think they should get them out NOW, not wait and not let them finish high school or middle school there.
Bratt Man on October 2nd, 2008 11:30 am

See you later, all you Atmorons. Go chiefs.
Ashley on October 2nd, 2008 11:24 am

I agree with the teacher… try to come up with positive solutions that don’t hurt the children. Everyone here needs to read Dr. Suess’s “Horton Hears a Who”. There is a message in there that I have taught my children…. that maybe some of ya’ll need to learn too.
Alabama Educator on October 2nd, 2008 11:17 am

“Sub-par”? Ask yourself this: How many teachers in the local Florida school system began their teaching career in Alabama? Moreover, take a poll and determine how many of those teachers have retired from the Alabama education system and are now working in Florida schools. Ignorance breeds prejudice, and prejudice is not just a racial issue. Apparently you know little to nothing about the job of a classroom teacher. Every state has its inadequacies in the teaching profession; however, any intelligent person with a modicum of common sense knows that this holds true in any profession. Be careful when you make a definitive statement such as the one you wrote. I attended Florida public schools and obtained my degree at a Florida university. Does that make me “too good” to educate Alabama students? Let me reiterate: we have excellent teachers in Escambia County, Alabama, who work hard and devote much time and energy to their students–and get very little credit, much less support, from the community.

Having said that, I have another comment. I have to wonder why many of these Alabama students who attend the local Florida schools are the children of quite a few of our Atmore business owners. Those same business owners who have no problem taking money from ALL Atmore residents (young and old of all color)–and, yes, those from Florida as well, yet find the schools in Atmore inadequate for their children. Perhaps if those same parents were as diligent in being involved in the schools in the same community in which they own businesses or work as they are in finding a way to send their children to a Florida school, there would be no question of quality education–or any other school issue.

Furthermore, the subject of property tax in Florida is real. Although residents in Florida may not see an overnight increase in their property taxes, please know that if student numbers continue to rise as a result of non-residential students, those who live and pay taxes in Florida will see an increase in the future. Florida property taxes DO maintain schools and pay teachers’ salaries. If you enjoy paying taxes for someone else to reap the benefits, please let me know, and I can let you pay the taxes on my vehicles while I have the pleasure of driving them.

And just so there is no doubt, let me assure you this comment was not written on school time. What is right is the real issue here. For those Alabama parents who send their children to Florida: be honest–because “I think thou dost protest too much.”
MotherofTWO on October 2nd, 2008 11:14 am

I was acutally just going to review the comments and leave my opinion out, until I read a few. We as parents and concerned citizens need to keep the importance of this conversation focused on the children. I am an Alabama resident who has two children in Fl. Schools. I will not degrade Al schools, but I have chosen to send my kids to FL schools because of my own personal reasons. I have not lied to get them there. I went before the board and stated my reasons for wanting them there and I was approved. To the one who states that AL students take away from Sports and scholarships, I have to disagree. Being a resident of AL does not get you on team, the students athletic ability gets them on the team. Their knowledge and what they gain from their education gets them scholarships. So, if you feel a child was neglected a chance to play sports or to recieve a scholarship, please take into consideration that not all children have the ability to recieve either no matter what state they live in, or school they attend. This shouldn’t come to a battle of communties. Our communities, two different states, are very close. We share everything. Grocery stores, parks, extra curricular activities, etc. I understand and agree with a limit on the number of students attending, but I don’t feel that it should be done away with. It’s no different then Atmore allowing FL girls to participate in The Miss “ATMORE” PAGEANT, or FL schools participating in the “ATMORE” Christmas Parades. We all enjoy a piece from each side of the state line. The kids aren’t complaining so why should the parents. Please people, the world is at war as it is, don’t let our communities of so many caring friends and family come to this. We should stick together as neighboring communties and work towards helping each other out not degrading and belittling each other’s children and schools. I know my children enjoy FL church programs with their FL friends as well as their FL friends enjoy church programs in AL. It keeps them all together as a whole no matter what the circumstance. Church, school, sports, etc.
Teacher on October 2nd, 2008 11:06 am

I come face to face with this issue everyday in my classroom. There are Alabama kids in almost all of my classes. I personally agree with many of the comments that have already been made opposing the admission of Alabama students to our Florida schools. That being said, Alabama parents, please know that this in no way affects how I treat your child in my classroom. To Florida parents, please remember that these students you are talking about are children! Many of my students read Northescambia.com everyday and the comments you are leaving are going to make these children think you hate them. Please do not make these children second guess the way their teachers, friends, and their friend’s parents feel about them. There are enough pressures facing our children today as it is, please find a way to voice your opinion in a more positive and beneficial way.
Maggie on October 2nd, 2008 11:02 am

If the number of enrolled students in our Florida schools decreases, the number of teachers will decrease. I guess it doesn’t matter to some of you if those teachers have a job, but I am sure that the teachers themselves are concerned about it. I have been advised to “grow up.” It’s funny to me who offered that advice. I am a mature adult who minds my own business. If it isn’t harming my family, I don’t worry about it. I will express my opinion, but I don’t seek ways to cause problems for other families who are trying to get a good education for their children. I live in Florida and my children attend school in Florida. They are in honors classes and the gifted education program. They have tried out and made the sports teams. The reason is because they are academically and athletically talented. They have not been kept from those programs because students came from Atmore. They made it because God gave them a talent.
Concerned Citizen on October 2nd, 2008 10:56 am

This is to Ashley that just made a post You are exactly right. Your thoughts are my thoughts exactly. You just put them into better words. No one with any heart can argue with what you just said.
Ashley on October 2nd, 2008 10:44 am

I don’t understand why everyone is making this about sports and scholarships. I graduated from NHS and probably 75% + of my class recieved a scholarship. Florida gives a scholarship to most students (FL merit, etc.) and there is not a limit on how many can receive them. As far as sports, is that really that important? And if it is, isn’t sports a competition. The best children make the team, that is how it has always been and should always be. Auburn University does not only field residents of Alabama (thank goodness ).
The real issue here (in my opinion) is that our school system as a whole is broken in some way. The US is one of the lowest countries concerning education (these are facts – you can look them up). The countries that have surpassed us do not have districts and barriers. They are competitive schools. The better schools get the kids and with the kids comes the funding.
As far as someone moving to Florida, we can not say what someone is capable of – - especially in today’s economy. It is almost impossible for someone to sell their house much less get a loan to buy another one.
Yes, it is sad that some parents have had to resort to lying in order to give their child a better education, but if that is the worse they do, then none of us should be calling them bad people. What is sad is that the parents that have been able to come to FL legally are now going to be punished. They have fought (and it is a fight) to give their child an education and now that will be stripped away from them. All this is going to do is cause more parents to be backed into a corner and lie to get their children in Florida. This is not going to solve a problem, it is actually going to create a bigger one.
I truly feel that the children that are already here should be “grandfathered” into the Florida school system and allowed to finish their education (through High School). This is not about money or sports, it is about taking a child and uprooting his life. Their school is all some of these kids know and now we are going to force them to give that up. It is sad that some are so cruel as to think this is “fair”.
Florida Parent on October 2nd, 2008 10:36 am

Children getting picked on happens in Florida schools to. My son goes to school here and he has gotten picked several times and we are not going anywhere. He is not going to school for everybody else he is going to school for an education. So, moving your child here because they have been being bullied is not an excuse, because he can happen here. Moving them doesn’t solve the problem.
Concerned Citizen on October 2nd, 2008 9:38 am

Don’t get me wrong. I don’t blame the schools for pushing the issue. But, it has to be for the right reasons and that is for the children. I feel that Atmore needs to get the school better before pushing the issue. I know a child that went to Atmore Middle School last year that was so bullied around that he came home crying to his mother everyday. She went to the principal on several occassions and nothing was done. He was so stressed that he almost failed. She had to fight this year to make sure none of the boys that were bullying him was in any of his classes. That is a shame!!! My two boys graduated from Northview and they never had any trouble. This is not an isolated issue. I have heard several stories about Atmore schools. Whether they are true or not, I cannot say, but if I still had school age children, I would not take the chance.
ECHS MOM on October 2nd, 2008 9:13 am

For the concerned citizen that just posted….. I am an ECHS Mom that was one of the 25 parents that have been pushing this isuue. If you read the papers, you will know that the Escambia County “Public” School Board has brought this issue up for good reason. I do understand both sides. However, we all know why most of the kids leaving our schools and going to Florida has to do with the ratio… I also understand that. But Atmore kids need to go to Atmore. If we do not get our schools better in Atmore. NO ONE will want to move here. We need this for our economy.
HELP ALABAMA on October 2nd, 2008 9:03 am

EVER HEAR THE TERM “THE DIRTY 30″ OR “AT THE BOTTOM”. IT IS EVER SO RIGHT HERE. ALABAMA IS A STATE 50 YEARS BEHIND TIMES IN RACE AND OTHER ISSUES. TO ME, IT’S NOT A RACE ISSUE, ATMORE HAS A BIGGER PROBLEM WITH DRUGS AND VIOLENCE THAN THE LOCAL FL AREA DOES. EACH RACE HAS A PROBLEM WITH THAT. AS FOR MY CHILD, I PREFER THAT SHE INTERACT AND BE FRIENDS WITH ALL RACES NOW, SO THAT SHE WILL B EREADY FOR THE REAL WORLD. IT STARTS AT HOME WITH PARENTS, LEADING THEM IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. ALL THIS SHOULD NOT MATTER, IT IS THE CHILD’S BEST INTEREST THAT SHOULD COME FIRST EVEN AT A COST. GOT TO WONDER THO, IF ANY OF THE AL PEOPLE THAT SEND THEIR KIDS TO FL SCHOOLS VOTED AGANIST THE AL LOTTERY. THAT COULD HAVE BEEN A TURNING POINT IN OUR STATE EDUCATION SYSTEM. “ALABAMA THE BEAUTIFUL”, NO WAIT, “ALABAMA THE BROKE”.
EA Parent on October 2nd, 2008 8:53 am

Some have been working all summer long to make our school a better place for our kids. As for football players, yes we need them, and yes they actively recruited this year. The survival of our school was at stake. Please leave your discussion about this issue where it needs to be, in public school, as the majority of the students you are discussing have never atttended EA.
Concerned Citizen on October 2nd, 2008 8:01 am

This has all been brought about because the Academy could not get enough football players. If you lower the rates and get better teachers I am sure that would attract students. Let’s all remember this is not about football, taxes, Atmore girls being Ernest Ward Cheerleaders, this is about children needing a great education. Everyone seems to be forgetting the children which is the most important issue of all.
CS on October 2nd, 2008 7:31 am

All Florida schools are not better than Alabama schools,but some are. I live in Florida and my children attend Florida schools. They should attend Carver/Century but I send them to Ernest Ward and Byrneville instead. I love my kids and want the best education for them I can get.I have one child that went through the Carver/Century system and I won’t do that to another one,I’ll home school them first.
I also have a niece and nephew that live in Atmore and attended Atmore schools until about the seventh grade. They then transferred to Ernest Ward ,Bratt and eventually Northview.My sister volunteered and subed in the schools and moved them to Florida schools when the atmosphere got really bad. You can’t blame parents for wanting the best for their children, and yes, sending children back to their original schools might bring the standard of that school back up, but would you want your child to be that first guinea pig? I know I wouldn’t.
Ala parent on October 2nd, 2008 5:54 am

Just think about if your child went to Fla all the way though school and you had to move them to another school. They miss their friends and teachers. That would hurt the child.Please just leave them where they are. Why would you be so hurtful to the child???? You are only hurting them…..
If you are worried about EA not being there next year. Fix that problem. Leave the rest of us alone………
TM on October 2nd, 2008 5:53 am

Wow! This topic is a hot debate and should be. I beleive if the Alabama kids (that are now enrolled in FL schools) enroll in AL schools it would help the AL schools performance. The students could be peer role models and peer mentors…since they are helping to raise FL scores?!? I’m not claiming to be making factual statements, just my opinion…

As a parent, I truly understand the desire to want nothing less than the best offered for my child…so I understand where everyone is coming from. Parents just want what they think is best for their child. Who can blame them?

There are homes for sale in FL…one being, on HWY 99 for sale for less than $140K. It is a nice home too.

Parents I beleive we should set good examples for our children and follow the laws.
Parent on October 1st, 2008 11:07 pm

Hey Angela. I sure hope that your comments posted at 8:47a.m., 9:10a.m., 9:20a.m., 1:57p.m., and 1:59p.m. were done on your planning period. Or should that planning period be used for correcting the sub-par teaching that I mentioned. Wait; Are you using Alabama taxpayer’s $$$$ for posting comments on Northescambia.com? How ironic. If you stop, I bet our taxes will not decrease but the education of the Atmore youth might increase. Is your planning period really from 8:47a.m. to 1:59p.m. ? HMMMM!
Person highly against angela brown on October 1st, 2008 10:19 pm

angela brown. what in the world is wrong with you?
alabama schools are horrible and thats why everyone is commin over
and yes alot of them are coming to florida schools because there are so many blacks
and if the kid doesnt want to be around that they shouldnt
that is there choice
we arent all librals like you!!!
al parent on October 1st, 2008 10:08 pm

Smilie, you let the cat out of the bag. The same thing has been said for years about teachers in public schools in al and fl that send their kids to EA, yet teach in public schools. What does that say about a public education? Something just isn’t right with that picture, hmmm.
al parent on October 1st, 2008 10:03 pm

Kudos to Maggie and a big Kudos to Parent !!!!!!!!!!! Let the tattling begin!
Smilie on October 1st, 2008 10:02 pm

I was wondering why a FL resident would be teaching at a AL school and sending her children to a FL school. I guess the pay scale is better in AL, but the education being given by the higher paid AL teacher is not as good as the education given by a FL teacher????
Parent on October 1st, 2008 9:50 pm

Well, what great reading! Judging from most of the comments that I have read, it seems that neither FL nor AL schools are better or worse than each other if all of you were educated locally. I agree with Maggie, in that FL residents’ taxes will not decrease and I certainly believe that should all of these “illegal & legal students” have to return to AL schools, that each of the three NW FL schools in question will be negatively impacted. As for the racial rabblerouser Alabama parent, wake up!!! You do not have a community without a solid education system. Find a local government official, be it city councilman, school board member, or county commissioner, that really, really, gives a rip about your so called community and tell them your “white flight” plight and see if they give you an opinion. I bet the answer will be, ” There’s more to offer over there, if I were not in public office I would probably do the same thing.” I do certainly suggest that the main reason that EA is struggling and that the public schools in Atmore are challenged as well, is that most of the quality students have left these institutions for FL schools, because of sub-par teaching and administration. Why would you want to be around the never ending cry of racial injustice, as well? Yes, Angela, I said sub-par teaching and administration, even though you guys are paid at a higher level than FL teachers. Go figure! But you do what you gotta do, primadonna.
Smilie on October 1st, 2008 9:47 pm

I think that the Flordia parents have a right to be angry. I also think that it is sad the pull the students out of the schools when they have relationships with teachers and other students. The kids can’t help what the parents have done and the kids will miss their friends. Having said that, maybe if all the AL parents got together, got their kids back in AL schools and helped to “fix” whatever they think is wrong with AL schools, then the FL and AL parents could be happy. Then whenever FL parents needed money from AL businesses for school fundraisers or when FL parents went around asking for donations from AL residents (as they always do) then maybe the AL parents would not have the same poor, lousy attitude that some of the FL parents are having now. Also, I don’t see the FL parents telling the AL newspapers such as the Advance and Atmore News to keep their FL kids’ school achievements out of the paper.
tired of Atmore students on October 1st, 2008 9:25 pm

Dang-diggity Paul! That was the funniest thing I have read all day! You are so friggin’ right! I wonder if our schools had the same ratio that Atmore schools have if they would still want to come here. RIGHT! Like race is not the issue!
Paul on October 1st, 2008 9:13 pm

About Time! I have seen kids crossing the lines for years! They use grandparents, animals, deceased relatives and anybody stupid enough to give their address to them!
FL Teacher on October 1st, 2008 8:08 pm

This is a good decision for everyone. Both states have limits on class sizes, both states have certified teachers, both states HAVE GOOD EDUCATION programs. it seems fair to educate the children where they live. some of the students that live in alabama and attend school in Florida miss out on after school programs like sports and band due to transportation. I would rather see students educated in their own community so they can fully enjoy the programs available to them at their community school. I think both states do a good job of educating our children but it makes more sense to me to send the students to school in their own community.
Alabama Parent on October 1st, 2008 7:02 pm

We live in the greatest country in the world – we should be able to send our kids as taxpayers to the school of our choice. We the parents are obligated to look out for our children’s best interest and pulling them out of a school that they have established friends, relationships with teachers is just not fair. If you really get down to the facts it is a non issue on what school system is the best both academically, and the sports programs. Florida schools win hands down. I personally do not believe Florida will agree with Alabama and change it when they vote. Please quit worrying about who’s tax money is paying for what – no one knows where it really goes anyway – FOCUS ON WHAT IS BEST FOR YOUR CHILD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ms. Grant, ECMS, Counselor on October 1st, 2008 5:56 pm

I’ve been reading some of the above comments and I am saddened to see that Atmore parents have such a negative view of our schools, but I am certainly not surprised . Afterall, I am an Atmore resident and I hear the talk around town. I am entering my third year as the 5th/6th grade counselor at Escambia County Middle School and could not be happier with the positive environment we are working so diligently to provide to our students. Since I have been employed with Escambia County Schools, we have met all of our yearly goals and overall test scores have increased considerably. I don’t believe that the people who view our schools from such a negative perspective are fully informed. We at Escambia County Middle School are trying our best to teach our children to be respectful, productive, young men and women. They are not allowed to go around with their pants sagging, dressing however they please, wearing “do-rags” on their heads and being disobediant and disrespectful. We have a dress code, which is strictly enforced, contrary to what some community members may think. If students are not able to follow the rules which we have set then they are not allowed to continue their education at our school. I would encourage Atmore residents to fuly investigate their local schools before sending their children into other school systems and “jumping through the hoops” of setting up utility bills with FL systems. I have an issue with parents living in Alabama and sending their children to Florida schools. If the district in which a person lives is not adequate to educate his/her children then perhaps those people should consider moving.
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 5:44 pm

Thanks Ashley! Sorry for being rude-just very passionate about this.:)
Ashley on October 1st, 2008 5:03 pm

Also, I think it is great how many people are concerned on this issue – - one way or another. I wish everyone put this much effort and compassion into their children’s education. Even if I personally don’t agree with someone, I love to see people concerned about our kids and their futures
Alabama Parent on October 1st, 2008 5:02 pm

The racial component is very real regardless of what might be talked about here. But bottom line is that this issue is very real to those who it affects the most. Parents want the best, as they perceive it, for their children, but at what cost. You might think it is a moral issue, and it is for those who are deceitful. You might see it as a money issue, for the schools who lose funding it is. But for those of us who truly care about our children it is a black and white issue, that is right or wrong. If you have to falsify information to have your child attend Florida schools that is wrong, no matter what your reason is. For BCHGRL, you obviously haven’t asked around about the many successfull people that have come from the Atmore area, wether ECHS graduates, EA graduates, or others. The type of attitude you bring to the table is negative and a little juvenile. For those who want to complain about having to go back to AL and how unfair it is to your children, you should have thought about that before you lied to take them there in the first place, your children get to learn about responsibility first hand, the buck stops with you.
Ashley on October 1st, 2008 5:01 pm

“That being said, I live in Bratt. And my child legally goes to school in Florida because my husband and I chose to follow the rules and move to Florida!” – quoted by angela brown

Not trying to get in anyone’s business, wouldn’t want to be considered a busy-body…getting into peoples business. Just asking a question regarding a statement
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 4:57 pm

Ashley, since you seem so concerned with my business-we did not move to Florida so my child could attend schools here. There were other reasons, which, quite frankly, are none of your business! I never stated that we moved here because of the schools. Just that my child is in the FL schools because we live here. So, once again, get your facts straight!
KLB on October 1st, 2008 4:46 pm

Ashley,
Thank you for clarifying that.
Ashley on October 1st, 2008 4:42 pm

Towards the bottom… Mrs. Brown stated that Alabama schools are wonderful, but she also stated that her and her husband moved to Fl. to attend the schools legally. Just curious
KLB on October 1st, 2008 4:35 pm

Ashley,
Not sure who you are addressing with this statement, “If Alabama schools are so great, why did you and your husband move here so that your child could attend legally?!?”

Could you clarify?
Ashley on October 1st, 2008 4:26 pm

I have just a couple of points…..
If Alabama schools are so great, why did you and your husband move here so that your child could attend legally?!?
Also, Has anyone considered what this will do to the children that have attended these schools for years. Whether or not you want to believe that the schools are equal in education, they teach from different text and resources. Wouldn’t that put the children at a disadvantage, either being ahead or below (whatever you want to believe)?
If a parent went the legal route, Why should that child now be punished and taken away from a school he has been raised in? His friends are there, and the teachers are so wonderful in Florida that it is like a second home to some of these kids. Could everyone stop worrying so much about the money that we will be spending no matter what (I have never had my taxes go down when enrollement did) and worry about the children that are being affected!!
If they want to stop it from here on; go ahead. Just leave the kids alone that are already here.
KLB on October 1st, 2008 4:22 pm

My family and I moved to Bratt from Flomaton three years ago. Our housing is more expensive than it was in Flomaton, our electric bill is significantly higher, and we live further from town which has increased our gas expense. Was it worth the move? ABSOLUTELY!! We have never regretted moving into Florida so that our children could attend school here. Yes, we have higher expenses, but in our opinion it is worth it. You can argue back and forth all day about whether this is a race issue or the quality of education coming from Alabama schools. It’s simple…..if you live in Alabama, your children should attend Alabama schools. If you live in Florida, your children should attend Florida schools. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and since everyone seems to be expressing theirs, I will express mine. Yes, I do think it takes away from students who live in Florida. When children are being pulled from the classrooms they started in at the beginning of the year to form a new class, I think it’s safe to say the school is becoming overcrowded. I know there are several chearleaders between Ernest Ward and Northview that are from Alabama. Those spots are spots that could have been given to a Florida student, so yes I do think it takes away from Florida students as far as sports goes.

Also, I haven’t seen anyone mention the fact that Bratt could possibly get the students from Century Carver if their school eventually closes. This is just going to create more overcrowding and another reason why students should attend where they are supposed to attend.
Live in FL-Fish in AL on October 1st, 2008 4:09 pm

I am not sure why everyone is getting so upset about where these children attend school. If you look at these kids in public you would wonder why a parent would complain now. These kids are unruly, foul mouthed, poorly dressed and a disgrace to our society. We have became a electronic society and have these kids couldn’t read, write or add 2 grades bellow there level. Don’t blame the school system “although far from perfect” an education starts at home then transfers through the schools and into real life. Do you know what your kids are doing right now. Most think they know but have no clue.
Dollar Bill Ya! on October 1st, 2008 3:59 pm

What does it cost per student per year (with overhead) to attend school? I believe it’s about $7,500 each. Yes, the school receives money for the number of students enrolled of about $1,500 each. That’s a whopping $6,000 difference that’s got to be made up somewhere, and it comes from your property taxes!

So, bring your checkbook if you want your out of state child to go to a Florida school.
nhs fan on October 1st, 2008 3:42 pm

Not that it is any of your business, fl parent, but my child did attend Atmore schools until the fourth grade and she received a wonderful education there from wonderful teachers! And just so you know, she was not behind in ANY subject area. And Maggie, standing up for what is right is not being a tattle-tale. Grow up!
Maggie on October 1st, 2008 3:32 pm

First of all, I live in Florida!! I’m wondering if Alabama students are no longer allowed in our schools, will that cause my property taxes to decrease? I think not! Also, I believe we would receive less money for our schools. Do we not receive funding according to the number of students enrolled? I may be wrong, Angela, you feel free to correct me if I am… since it is your assigned duty to be in charge of this matter! By the way, how does one get appointed to that position? Can we all have a vote next year of who gets to be the tattle-tale!?!
Cyndi Vaughn on October 1st, 2008 3:22 pm

Concerned Florida Mom of 3:

I am a Florida resident. My children have never attended public school in Florida. They are not, & I repeat, NOT behind academically. Both of my children consistently score WELL ABOVE their grade level on the SAT (That is the NATIONAL standardized achievement test…NOT the FCAT.) My elementary child most recently scored POST HIGH SCHOOL in two different subjects & above grade level in the other subjects–my high school child has scored post high school in ALL SUBJECTS for about 6 years now. Please do not generalize & stay that students coming from area private schools are behind academically.
fl parent on October 1st, 2008 3:15 pm

As long as there is classroom space, I see no problem with Alabama kids going to Florida schools.Oh, and Ms Brown, if Alabama schools are so wonderful, why doesn’t your child attend them? I know you live in Florida but I also know that your child can attend where you teach. Just wondering.
Richard on October 1st, 2008 2:59 pm

Fla Daddy re read the article it says:
“For example, an Alabama student in the third grade at Bratt Elementary would be allowed to attend school here through the fifth grade,” Arnold said. Once that child finished fifth grade, they would not be allowed to move on to middle school in Florida. A student attending Ernest Ward Middle School under the agreement would be allowed to finish the eighth grade but not be allowed to attend Northview High School.

I have 2 students in Florida schools and We are residence of Fla. But according to this they will be allowed to finish at the school they are at. Myself I dont think it fair in allowing them to attend our schools without having to pay the taxes and yes it does take away from Fla children in sports and scholarship benifits.
I can see both sides on October 1st, 2008 2:49 pm

Alabama parent, its people like you who wants to make everything a black or white issue. I have you know theirs black children being driven across the line too.
and just how do you know what goes on in the offices at school.
On the other hand I can see both points, If you get it approved thats one thing but dont lie to get in to a school, what is that teaching our youth. Its the ones who are untruthful that has hurt the family’s getting it approved, with certain situations.
BCHGRL on October 1st, 2008 2:27 pm

A two-strike and you are out policy needs to be implemented in addition to this. I remember the students that came from Alabama when I was in school (NHS 97). Real winners those kids. They were known for starting fights, harassing other students and teachers, and responding poorly to any form of discipline.

Over ten years later, many of the FL resident students have advanced degrees and are doing great things professionally and personally. Some are teachers that make the FL school system so excellent. Most of the AL students that came to our school? I’m sure you can find a few at the bar every night.
Alabama parent on October 1st, 2008 2:18 pm

One more thought for the Florida folks. Your school board, and school district have been pounded on this issue this year. They have shuffled around, hem-hawed around the subject, and just plain turned their head, knowing full-well about the deception. Hold them accountable for it getting to this point. Hold the local principals accountable, they have directed an admittance policy that tells office staff to “not” ask any questions about where the student lives. As long as the application has a Florida address, let them in. They have to know these are Alabama kids with an transcript from a local Alabama school. Come on principals we expect better from you.
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 1:59 pm

Oh, and to the “other Alabama parent” who is so angry about me reporting people, if you didn’t lie then don’t worry about it.
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 1:57 pm

Alabama parent, I think I love you! Thanks SO MUCH for the support! It is nice to have someone on your side!
Alabama parent on October 1st, 2008 1:43 pm

One other thing, these numbers are way off. The only numbers the florida school district is counting are those under the original agreement that actually provided their correct info as Alabama residents, and got school board approval. The ones that used false proofs of residency, ie water bills (shame on Bratt Water Works) power bills, names on pieces of land, rental agreements, power poles in peoples yards, lease agreements drawn up by local lawyers, and various other lies, these students are not in the count because the system thinks they actually live in Florida. Conservative estimate is about 250 children. Federal funding is at stake for local schools, and yes test scores would increase. As someone who has family in local school systems currently teaching, these kids can get a solid education wherever they attend. I would hate it as a Florida resident to see an Alabama child come to my school for one year, graduate with a 4.0 and receive a state funded college scholarship without contributing one dime to Florida. I would think that would constitue a pretty good case for fraud. Speak up Florida folks, you have been taken advantage of, big time.
Florida Mother on October 1st, 2008 1:41 pm

Let me start by saying that I’m all for the best education for all children,and I have friends that their children got accepted in our schools , however when I went to the first day of school the parents were told that some children may shuffle around because the classrooms are overloaded, then that is cause for concern not only for the children but for the teachers trying to teach them.It’s not fair for us as Florida residents to have to pay the high land tax ,and out of state don’t, you should have to go to school in your district, and I would feel the same way if I lived in Ala I would do everthing possible to help the school system to make things better if they are so bad that I needed to send my child some where else, I went to Ala schools and I didn’t turn out bad and I got education. If its so bad in Ala then why not move into Floida, and not have to worry about it, there is nothin I wouldn’t do for my children and it if ment that much to me thats what I would do.
Alabama parent on October 1st, 2008 1:33 pm

Well, I’ll be, finally somebody owns up to what has been going on. To the Florida residents, I apologize for the many who have lied and circumvented the system. If no one else will say it I will, this is a racial issue. Facts support that these parents chose not to send their kids to school in Alabama because of what most would characterize as social or cultural issues with their respective schools. The schools affected, Northview, Bratt, and Ernest Ward are predominately white 80% or more. I don’t think these parents would have sent these children down there if these were magnet schools but 80% black would they? The Atmore commnunity deserves better than for their residents to abandon them and take off on a “white flight” to Northwest Fl. To all of the Atmore parents that think this is justified, or they are justified for lying about residency, shame on you. This community depends on “our” children, and raising them to believe that Atmore is not good enough may just be the undoing of our community down the road. Keep this in mind when you are commiting your fraud, lies, and deception to take your kids out of town. I’ll be on the phone with angela providing names and addresses to make sure we are all on a level playing field. To those who chose to educate their children in private schools in our area, I have no problem with you, at least you are staying in our community to educate your children.
Florida Mom on October 1st, 2008 12:14 pm

I have heard several Alabama parents state that they would just “give custody” of their kids to their grandparents/aunt/cousin, etc that are Florida residents. Be aware that if you do this, it will affect your deductions on your income taxes. If someone else has legal custody of your child, then they claim that child on their income taxes.
Concerned Florida Mom of 3 on October 1st, 2008 12:09 pm

I see both sides of this issue and have friends in this situation. I have several friends who were sending their kids to a private school and then transferred to a FL school and their kids are behind. They have struggled to catch up.

Everybody say, why don’t the AL people move to FL. I recomend that you try to find land in North West Escambia. Most of the land for sale are for 20 acers plus and not many people can afford to buy that much land.
Mother of Three on October 1st, 2008 11:51 am

If Alabama schools are on the same level with Florida schools, then why on earth are these parents putting themselves and their children through the hassle of driving back and forth, sometimes more than once depending on if they have children enrolled in more than one school, every day to get to school? I personally have a family member who was in the gifted program at the middle school in Atmore. Moved to Ernest Ward because he was being bullied, and struggled to make C’s. As for the AL children helping to keep scores up, there really aren’t enough high scoring students from AL to make a difference.
Florida Mom, too on October 1st, 2008 11:33 am

It does appear from these comments that some people don’t have their facts straight, nor do they seem to realize (or maybe they don’t want to accept) that there are many families whose children have been APPROVED to attend Florida schools. I really wish you would stop accusing people of lying, when you don’t know their personal situation. Just because you know someone, doesn’t make you knowledgeable of their particular situation, or whether they have school board approval for their child to attend a Florida school. It sounds like a very personal vendetta.
Florida Daddy of 3 on October 1st, 2008 11:25 am

“Alabama parent ” … don’t worry. Even if your kids are legit because they are part of the 100, they are headed back to Alabama when they finished teh grade they r in now. ECHS…here they come!
Alabama parent on October 1st, 2008 11:19 am

Angela, while you are on your crusade to remove all Alabama students from Florida schools, you should take into consideration that there are those of us who got approval to go to Florida schools WITHOUT LYING!!!!!!!!!!!! Before you go reporting people, you need to make sure that you have your facts straight. I will be praying for you, because you obviously have a lot of unresolved issues. I can’t believe how you are so bent on attacking Alabama families and children, without knowing the circumstances. I can only pray you have a change of heart and will re think your plan on this matter and think before you speak.
S.L.B on October 1st, 2008 11:02 am

It’s about time that something is finally being done concerning this on-going issue, but I’m wondering why it took the Alabama School Board to make that decision in first place?

Second, the Florida School Board needs to start listening more to the Florida tax payers/citizens needs and wants and re-evaluate alot of things for our schools, teachers and for our children. We may be “just the parents”, but we are just as smart and as intelligent as those that sit on the School Board and have idea’s and visions for our young people too!

Get with the program Esc.Co. Florida School Board and let’s improve and streghthen our system even greater than what it is now. We have more room for improvement, but at least this decision is a start!

ALABAMA parents…..if you desire your students to attend our Florida schools (in the name of a better education for them), best get looking for a Florida home/residence TO LIVE IN and pay the same fees, taxes and etc…that us Florida citizens are required to pay, in order to reap those benefits and call Florida home.
Jay on October 1st, 2008 10:37 am

Did you know that some of these folks are breaking Florida law?

Florida Law: 322.031 Nonresident; when license required.–

(1) In every case in which a nonresident, except a nonresident migrant or seasonal farm worker as defined in s. 316.003(61), accepts employment or engages in any trade, profession, or occupation in this state or enters his or her children to be educated in the public schools of this state, such nonresident shall, within 30 days after the commencement of such employment or education, be required to obtain a Florida driver’s license if such nonresident operates a motor vehicle on the highways of this state. The spouse or dependent child of such nonresident shall also be required to obtain a Florida driver’s license within that 30-day period prior to operating a motor vehicle on the highways of this state.
me on October 1st, 2008 10:34 am

The Alabama kids have help keep scores up.
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 9:20 am

Amen, Florida Parent! I am so glad that other parents in Florida are coming forward on this issue. You are so correct about the scholarships, sports teams, and the number of students. I can assure you that it IS well over 100!
Florida Parent on October 1st, 2008 9:16 am

This should have been done a long time ago! It’s taking a way from our children. The children living close to the school couldn’t ride the bus, but yet they will bus children from Alabama. The same with sports, that Alabama child could keep one of our children from being selected to be on a team. Also, a scholarship taken away from our children is not right. If they want to go here for an education then they should give all their rights up to sports and scholarships. Also, I know for a fact that there are more than a hundred Alabama children going here. The parents will add their names to bills, to get their children in the Florida schools. There probably are double Alabama children then what they say. If they want their children to go to a Florida school then they need to move to Florida and pay taxes just like we have to.
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 9:10 am

Alabama schools DO NOT give poor education!
Jay on October 1st, 2008 9:05 am

I agree with Florida Mom,

The school district now needs to tighten up on the requirements to “prove” residency. At the moment, it’s too easy to circumvent the system.

Today, one can bring in a note signed by a landlord stating he or she lives in a rental, or a person can produce a power bill in his or her name, which is easy to do with a phone call to the power company. Most know that you don’t have to live in a house to get the power bill placed in your name.

It’s a bit harder to get around residency requirements if the district required a valid Florida driver’s license, Florida vehicle registration, and an Escambia County voter’s registration card (each having a current address). By the way, Pensacola Junior College already has a similar process in place because there’s real money involved in the difference between resident and non-resident tuition.
FL Mom of 3 on October 1st, 2008 9:00 am

I have thought for a long time that it isn’t fair to our children who live in Florida to have to be crowded out by Alabama students. We live in FL and pay FL taxes while the AL kids to go to school here and their parents aren’t paying the taxes. I also agree that AL parents should attend school board meetings for their schools and find a solution for the poor education given by AL schools then they could stay in their own home town and go to school there. It’s about time someone puts a stop to it, and I am glad. I think that if you want to go to FL schools then you need to move here!!
angela brown on October 1st, 2008 8:47 am

Just so you know, Ashley, I teach in an Alabama school and we are not substandard to Florida schools! None of our schools except Escambia County High is in caution according to federal guidelines. We have to follow the same standards that all public school follow, regardless of the state. So get your facts straight! That being said, I live in Bratt. And my child legally goes to school in Florida because my husband and I chose to follow the rules and move to Florida! Unlike the parents who have lied and are still lying to get their kids into our schools. I am afraid that it will take more than a rule revocation to get rid of all these kids who are illegally attending our schools. Their parents will probably continue to lie. However, this is a great start and one that I have been fighting for for years! I commend Mr. Hines and Mr. Arnold for making this change. I am only sorry that so many kids are already enrolled in the high school and will get to finish their education there. Alas, I cannot complain. But rest assured that I will be turning in any names of students whose parents are lying about their residence to the board in both states. I know a lot of these people personally and what they are doing is not only morally wrong, but illegal. And the people who are allowing them to use their addresses will be held responsible also. So think about it before you make that mistake. Thank God this has finally come to light! I am elated about this decision! And all of the other parents who live and pay taxes in Florida should be extremely happy!
Mother of Three on October 1st, 2008 7:04 am

I was quite amazed this year at Open House at the number of Alabama parents I saw walking in. We’ve always had a large number of Atmore area children but this year it seems to have skyrocketed. I’d love to know what the number of AL children actually is at Bratt. Of course, most of them use someone else’s address so there is no way to tell. We have all these Atmore children, yet when you approach an Atmore business for help, they only support Atmore schools. Makes sense to me!!! I feel for these children. I think Bratt, Ernest Ward, and Norhtview are great schools and the children probably have more opportunities here. Shouldn’t the parents at least try to do something to change the Atmore area schools if they are so bad?
Ashley on October 1st, 2008 6:50 am

I completely disagree with this. If they want to stop it from here on go ahead, but I think the kids that are already here should be allowed to remain and finish out there education – completely. Alabama schools are so far behind Florida that the children will not be on the same level. This is going to force these children and parents to have a “lesser-then” education. I think if Alabama wants to put a stop to this, they should demand higher standards at their own schools…. then maybe the parents will choose to come back on their own. But the school board wouldn’t want to do that, because that would be putting the blame on themselves, so let’s just let the children suffer instead…. brilliant. It’s sad because all these parents are doing is trying to get the best for their children…. and some, if not most cannot afford private school, so Florida is their next best option.
Florida Mom on October 1st, 2008 6:45 am

I’ve thought for a long time that it isn’t quite fair for Florida taxpayers to pay for Alabama students’ education. That’s what it boils down to. Perhaps a one time fee per year, per student could be paid by the parents to the Escambia County School Board for their students to have the priveledge of going to FL schools. Just a thought!

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News