Parent Post: In response to the cost of getting people not to get out and vote, I have to admit I don't understand the question.   

A response to the fewer number of people voting is that people become complacent. This is very dangerous. In the primary vote, people were already getting a ballot to vote on a bigger election so it was easy. In the runoff, only people directly interested in the school board election made the effort.

Many assumed that with a large number voting for change in the primary, Miller would have an easy win. Fortunately, he did. Winning a vote for change is very difficult as the incumbent, if doing the job correctly, will be able to get people (friends and family) to vote while the rest of the population doesn't pay attention and it's "business as usual". That makes this win that much bigger. Removing an incumbent by a vote of 70% is saying a lot.

 
Our Reply: When you compare last year's election to this year's runoff (444 votes vs 850 votes) we would say it was an impressive turnout. It was even more impressive based on what the above post mentioned.

Parent Post 1: It is interesting that fewer people voted in the runoff than voted for Tony Shanbour in the general election.  I wonder how much was spent by the candidates to get fewer than 900 people out to vote?
          Mark Young
 

Parent Post 2: Indeed the people have spoken.  They want change and have voted for change.  Now that there has been a change on the Board, we need to keep that change going and get rid of some of the others on the Board.

A change in the School Board is not all our district needs.  It needs a change in ADMINISTRATION!!!  So I ask you patrons of Deer Creek what are we going to do about it?  We can not go on with the corrupt administration that we currently have.

I have also heard we are a laughingstock in other districts.  What a shame, when we are supposed to be the best school district in the state.  How sad, how very, very sad.
 

Parent Post 3: WOW !!! Look what can happen when we all stand together.  We can accomplish anything. The patrons of Deer Creek Schools have chosen to take back our schools, one Board member at a time. The school board must never forget that they work for the parents and students.  I believe that David Miller will never lose sight of that.  We just sent the other board members that message loud and clear.

I would like to ask people to continue to stand up for what is right. We cannot just sit by and watch our good coaches be forced out and our teachers afraid to talk about what’s really going on in the schools.  They work in fear and this has got to stop. If you have had any major problems in any of our schools, please make sure you always send an e-mail to the School Board Members.  They are not mind readers and I promise you Becky Wilkinson, Toni Jones and the other administration staff only tell the Board what they want them to hear. WE REALLY ARE A VERY STRONG FORCE TOGETHER. The key is communication all the way around.  Please let our School Board know what is going on in OUR schools.  That is right, OUR schools.

See School Contacts for email addresses >>

Parent Post 1: The People have voted...let the numbers speak for themselves!!  Congratulations Mr. Miller.  If these results are any indication of the remaining board members popularity, I can only imagine how many more people will come out for the next race...who wants Barnes' seat?  Happy to see the wheels turning and hopefully a strong message has been sent to the Board...we vote you in and we can vote you out!  Proud to be a Miller Supporter
 

Parent Post 2: By using my old school math, I calculated that David Miller won 70% of the vote.  Seventy-percent!!! That's a statement.   Bring it on Danny, you're next!
 

Parent Post 3: re: Election Results  We couldn't be happier -- for Mr. Miller, for our kids, for the District and good the citizens of Deer Creek -- few but strong -- who saw fit to go with truth, integrity and change. Nuff said.
 

Parent Post 4: Hallelujah! I think the district might have hit a turning point!

I know David Miller can't go in with a scorched earth mentality, but one decision at a time, maybe we can return the district to excellence. Professionalism comes from the very top tier of an organization. Clear policies have to be in place from the top down. Clear and unintimidating procedures have to be in place to carry complaints from the parents (and teachers) up the chain of command. When complaints are handled immediately, professionally, openly and effectively, gossip and bickering will stop.

I know 99% of teachers are working hard and doing a good job. But the other 1% along with other district personnel are making us look REALLY bad! How could we possibly have two instances of district employees striking a child, where neither employ was even suspended immediately while the incident was investigated?

There was a post on David Miller's website that claimed we are a laughingstock of other districts because of our unreasonable parents. I say we are a laughingstock of other districts because of Deer Creek district policies, lack of professionalism and lack of action.
 

Parent Post 5: We have joked since we moved out here about it being "Knots Landing!"  There is always some drama, some soap opera going on out here.  It is not until living here a few years now that some of it is truly a sad state of affairs how a few corrupt people can negatively affect the education of so many.  Let's hope the patrons come out today to reclaim our district and vote David Miller on to the school board. Then, we must continue on that line, and get Barnes out next year...
 

Our Reply: Congratulations to David Miller.  It is the start of change in the district.  It is the first step in a long journey.

Election Update: Final Vote

David Miller	596
Shelley Denton	254

Parent Post: The patrons of this District need to get out and vote.  Today is just another example of the sick leadership in this District.  The David Miller for School Board website, which contained a Town Hall Meeting forum online, was filled early this morning with filthy images under the link of “Elementary Issues”.  This is of course one of hottest areas of debate on the site.  So many great ideas were being posted and now it is down until after the election.

This patron wants freedom of speech and the freedom to discuss ideas.  No longer should we be kept in the dark about BOE issues and decisions.  We elect them and we should be about to talk to them and about our children’s education when ever we please.  Not when Becky Wilkinson will allow it on an agenda a week before the meeting.  This is so she can run out and fix whatever the patrons are upset about.  Come on people, say “no” to censorship in DC.  Vote smart on Tuesday.  Say no to vandalism, website hacking and DC Schools corruption.  Vote Miller!  Your kids deserve it!

P.S.  Had to add this.  Just got my AUTOMATED phone call from Denton.  She says not the break up the strong team at DC.  HELLO?!?!?!  Don’t you mean the “dynasty”?  Barnes, Denton and all the rest of the dynasty (i.e. old farm families without kids in DC) need to do what is best for the children of Deer Creek, not what is best for themselves or their historical ideals.  Between the vandalism, weekend signs disappearing, website trashing and all round administrative corruption, this is turning into South Fork.  I just can’t decide who is JR?  Barnes or Denton?  What is your vote?

Parent Post

Re Parent Post Feb 20 regarding 2008 Elections: Technology plans have been brewing for a while with the help of some very helpful parents and patrons. Obviously, another school board member who is interested in supporting those already working on this endeavor would be great. Stay tuned!

Parent Post:

Listening or panicking?  Danny Barnes is already campaigning!  We haven't seen him at any school - except a few late times at his own children's events.....in the past 4 years.  Now that he is entering his fifth and FINAL year on the school board....he is signing up to be a part of everything!  Certainly the Barnes/Denton camp knows how to win an election.  Just like when Danny ran last time:  all of a sudden he wants to be a hero.  Sound like a politician?  Don't worry - you have all year to discuss it with him.  He will have his face everywhere but at home!  "Rumor" has it that he is already scheduled to attend every PTO meeting over the next couple of months.  How many has he attended since his election year?  Well since I have kids spread out....I can tell you - a big fat ZERO! 

KEEP YOUR EYES WIDE OPEN DEER CREEK PATRONS!  We already know the reality and the truth - he has proven it the past 4 years. One year of begging does nothing for me!  CHANGE - real commitment to policy change- etc.  that would mean the Board was listening!  But, why change anything - remember Danny grew up here?  He just hasn't realized it has changed from a farm school district to a booming suburb/school district.  Danny - if you get out that little - read the paper!  Get glasses - whatever it takes - we are busting at the seams!  AND we have a whole new type of student.

Parent Post:

After reading the Daily Oklahoman and the Edmond Sun the last week, it is extremely curious to me that all of a sudden we are hearing of "plans".  Would it be the administration is finally listening to candidates such as Miller or Shanbour?  I hear of CLEP and technology plans.  Sound like our new candidate platform?  I also hear they (the Board and Administration) want to visit with the community (i.e. homeowner associations, etc.) to communicate and listen to them.  Sound familiar??? If it is not because they see the candidates that received 60% of the vote pushing for communication, then it must be to get Shelley in front of potential voters. (If you think that is a lame attempt at mustering votes, how about visiting nursing homes to gain votes - it is sad what some people will stoop to).

Don't go to sleep Deer Creek voters! All this is a too little and WAY TOO LATE!  We have a chance for change. Don't blow it!  Vote for David Miller on April 1st!

Our Reply

The election is not over by any means.  Just because more people voted against Shelley in the General Election does not mean it will automatically happen in the run off.  Those in favor of change will need to keep fighting the fight in order for change to happen. 

Shelley and the establishment are no dummies and know what to do to win.  We can’t stress enough for people to continue to talk to the friends and neighbors to encourage them to vote for David miller on April 1st.  Otherwise the school district will be continue to be run by the ‘Barnes Board’.

Parent Post:

I have to say just because Danny Barnes has graduated from and has kids attending Deer Creek Schools does not make him any more of a "true antler" than anyone else.  Might I remind you that he sits on our School Board.  A School Board that has made and continues to make many bad decisions for our school district.

One of many, would be voting and approving to have Becky Wilkinson be our Superintendent.  Then voted to renew her contract and give her a raise. That is just one of many bad decisions that have been made by our School Board.  Sorry, but when I think of someone being a "true antler" I think of someone who does what is truly in the best interest of our school district.  Not someone who graduated from or has kids that go to Deer Creek.

Parent Post 1: To parent post 1 - there is a runoff election!  Spread the word.  April 1st will either be a true fools day on the DC patrons or the beginning of (LONG OVERDUE) change in the district.

Dr. Barnes' time is coming next year.  We can only hope that Tony Shanbour will throw his hat in the ring again then.

Some of us who have moved here (yes - for the schools) are very involved and interested in seeing that the schools succeed despite the challenges facing the district.  Wake up!  Snide remarks about how someone who grew up here will do a better job on the board than someone who moved here are totally ignorant.  We need to look to other districts' successes and learn from them, instead of looking inward at our own supposed wonderland.  I believe the more insights and input from people with a variety of experiences, the better!  It is this attitude of entitlement and superiority that is sending this district on the fast track STRAIGHT DOWN. 

We have great teachers and administration at most of the school sites.  The Board and parents alike need to get behind them with support and appreciation and get off the ego trip. 

Parent Post 2: Concern parent: So the person seen around MacArthur vandalizing signs late Saturday night by one of the land owners would not be anyone Mr. Miller Knows?

Please direct me to "where" on his web page he is asking people to stop vandalizing personal property.  Since his web page is where most people will look for answers not the gossip post.

On this site I have read most everyone wants change on this site so what "change" is needed?

To parent post 1:  about signs:  I agree, I am ready for the all the signs to be gone.

Our Reply: Usually Rob and I discuss replies before putting them up. He is out so I'm going ahead and posting this. He may over rule me when he gets back.

With that said to Parent Post 2, you are deliberately being hurtful to innocent people by slipping in text that points the finger at them without naming them. Yes, once I found out I removed the text.

As much as I feel a two side dialog is healthy and necessary, we cannot post your input if you continue to do this. It is hurtful, and I suspect fabricated to further your cause. Shame on you.

Parent Post 1: Now that the election is over, it sure would be nice to see the signs that litter the road and fences...GONE.

Parent Post 2: To parent post 1, 2 & 3:  Do you really want a candidate who supports vandalizing personal property?  What message does this send to our children.  Do you see any of David Miller signs vandalized?  Not only vandalizing personal property but trespassing.

Parent Post 3: A concerned parent: At least Danny Barnes is a true Antler and a Deer Creek parent.  He went to school at Deer Creek and graduated from Deer Creek.  How many parents and children on this site can say they were born and raised and graduated from Deer Creek?  Not many!  Most have moved into this area because of the school district.

Our Reply: To Parent Post 2 no candidates supports vandalism.  If you had read David Miller’s post you would see he is on record asking for people to stop the nonsense.  If we posted all the rumors that have been circulating about the election you would find ones that have been spread by Shelley Denton supporters that are more outrageous.  Teach your kids to learn the whole issue before making inaccurate conclusions is what we would suggest.

To Parent Post 3 if we are using Danny Barnes as a measuring stick then we go on record that we are turning in our ‘Deer Creek Cards’.

Parent Post 1: I am not usually one to do more than observe the goings on on this site but as I just read the election results from yesterday  YES - my "UDDERS ARE IN A TWIST".  I have listened to all of the supporters of the candidates, the candidates themselves and been impacted by the actions and lack thereof of our current board.  I also went to the school board forum as an undecided voter but came out knowing I could NOT support or vote for Shelly Denton again.  The frightening reality is that I was naive enough to believe that voters in the district could also see this and the need for a new voice but here it is the day after elections and Shelly has received 40% of the vote (according to kfor.com).

COME ON PEOPLE at least try to make an informed decision. If you are going to vote do not just select the first name that appears on the ballot.  I do not see any other way the "system" let this happen.  I was hopeful for a Shanbour - Miller runoff but am just disgusted that I will again have to enter a voting booth and see Denton listed first and fear that again uninformed and apathetic voters will make a decision we will be regretting for years to come.

Parent Post 3: AMEN!   I am so relieved to hear that there is still a chance for change!  I voted for Shanbour but will now support David Miller.  There was another die-hard supporter of Mr. Miller in front of Rose Union yesterday morning in the rain, also.

Stay strong, Deer Creek and vote for change ~ no more shady deals, no more chances for those that have proven themselves ineffective in 5 years already on the board.  April 1st our first step to getting our schools headed in a new direction!

Parent Post 4: I watched the election progress and results all night last night to the point where I was almost screaming at my kids for changing the channel or getting on MySpace when I was waiting for KFOR's website to "refresh". It was agony watching our School Board Election.  I am, however, thrilled that there will be a run-off.  But I'm still curious as to why were there only 3,528 votes cast in this particular part of Super Tuesday???  Through my work I have access to a database of homes, homeowners, properties occupied or not, an even residents who are not owners in the District; and I can tell you with absolute certainty that there are almost 40% more (an additional 1,300+) properties owned in this District.  Presuming national and statewide statistics are close to accurate and we do in fact have nearly a 50% census of single family homes because of the divorce rate of which we (the State) seem to be so proud, you do the math.  Where were all the voters?

Even allowing for a "margin of error" to any degree, where were all the voters?

The School District Directory alone contains over 1,700 entries, and we all know that many families are not, for a number of reasons, in the Directory this year.  So, where were all the voters?

I guess my question is, and I am really am looking for an answer I can live with, WHERE WERE ALL THE VOTERS?

Our Reply

To Parent Post 1 we couldn’t agree with you more.

To Parent Post 2 thanks for the clarification about the ad.  We do find it ironic that the individual who started the hubbub about the ad said they had too much class to spread rumors.  Maybe they will take off their ‘Shelley-Colored’ glasses and see everything in a new light.

To Parent Post 3 it still isn’t over yet.  We need to continue the fight and hope David Miller is victorious in the run-off.  The wheels of change are rolling let’s just hope we don’t get a flat tire along the way.

To Parent Post 4 considering only 400 and change voted last year we would say this was a big improvement.  The true test will be the number of voters at the run-off election.  Hopefully everybody will give themselves a reminder to vote on April 1st.  You know April Fools Day.  Hopefully the joke will be on Shelley.

Parent Post 1: Tony how much did the Edmond Sun's endorsement cost?  What's the going rate for a full page add these days?

Buying an election. Here's what Tony spent for the Edmond Sun's endorsement:  (I called) $975. If anyone is "buying" an election it's not the Millers or Dentons.

Parent Post 2: Talk is cheap, haven't ya'll learned from now, that candidates will say anything and be at every DC function before elections????? We'll see after the elections if the elected School Board member comes to all the various DC meetings. 

Don't throw the baby out with the bath water Dr. Shanbour (referring to your blasting ad of the DC school board in the Edmond Sun)That includes some great people like John Robertson and that's fighting words with the DC patron.  I'm voting with David...I know he'll attend the functions.

Parent Post 3: After the election - please make some sort of notice that we -the patrons in this district - have spoken!  Regardless of who won - add the two running for CHANGE and it was a landslide against the one for the opposite.  We are telling the current school board that we want change! Unfortunately two people ran against each other to try and get change.  If two people would have run on the other side - it would be an easy win for CHANGE! We have to demand it!

Our Reply: As to the ad in the Edmond Sun, Tony Shanbour did not pay for that ad it was paid for by ‘Friends of Tony Shanbour’.  Did Tony approve it?  He probably did but again he didn’t pay for it from what we were told.

We totally agree with Parent 2.  Once the election process is over let’s see who lives up to their campaign promises.  We think both David and Shelley will.  Unfortunately we have seen what happens when Shelley lives up to her promises.

Parent Post 1: To Parent Post 2's reply to Parent Post 2 from original Parent Post 2 -- did you get all that?

Thank you for the info, but we ARE registered voters at this address, have been since 2005, and we intend to exercise that right on Super Tuesday to the fullest extent possible.  I am not convinced that the Election Board provided Mrs. Denton with the mailing list she used.  In fact, I was so curious I spoke with the woman from whom we bought this property, and she tells me that she was never a registered voter here (we are on the Logan County side) but is certainly registered to vote in Cleveland County where she has resided since 2004.  But thanks anyway.  I still think I'm right -- Shelley Denton's finger is on the pulse of something but it is NOT this District.  I personally will spend this evening finalizing my decision for which of her opponents I will cast my vote.  And I'm almost ashamed to say this is the first year I've paid this much attention, but it absolutely will NOT be the last!

GET OUT THERE AND VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!  PAY ATTENTION AND DON\'T JUST VOTE THE FIRST NAME THAT YOU SEE IN THIS OR ANY ELECTION!!!!

Parent Post 2: Danny Barnes will be the first to tell you he can spend his money any way he wants to, I just hope the message is sent on Election Day that no matter how much money is spent, you can't buy a seat on the School Board!

Parent Post 3: More rumors.  Lies being spread by someone who feels that Tony's message isn't strong enough on it's own. Someone who feels that Tony isn't a strong enough candidate that they should spread rumors to attempt to bring down his opponent in an attempt to build him up.   Danny Barnes has not given the Denton campaign one penny or spent one dime on their behalf! I applaud David Miller for his campaign, he seems like a good man and hasn't had to mudsling to get his message to the people.  Shelley and David have stayed above the fray, and that speaks volumes to me.  I also heard this about candidate ____... sorry not going to go there.  I have class.

Our Reply

To parent post 2 it is true Danny Barnes as well as any other individual can spend their money any way they like.  But there may be one caveat.  We think there is a state law/guideline that prohibits a current board member from publicly supporting a candidate for the school board.  If somebody knows please send us a post.

To parent post 3 none of the three candidates have been personally involved, to our knowledge, in the mudslinging that has happened during this campaign.  However, all the candidates had supporters who were involved. It is probably a safe bet that none of the candidates knew about any of it beforehand. 

Parent Post 1: Danny Barnes is watching this election. If Shelley wins, he will run again. I've heard that he's giving her money for her campaign. It seems like that money would be better spent on the KIDS at Deer Creek Schools. Please help me send the message LOUD and clear we don't want Danny or Shelly. They have had their chance it's time for a CHANGE! Don't split the vote next Tuesday, that is only going help Shelley! GET ON BOARD WITH SHANBOUR he really is what is best for our schools!

Parent Post 2: The lady who took it upon herself to send out e-mails, using the electronic media , questioning the credibility of Mr. David Miller, should have taken the road of professionalism and ethical clarity  and met with Mr. Miller in person,  sharing her concerns and asking the questions she had.

In a setting of good communication, for the good of the whole, this would have fairly and rightly given Mr. Miller the opportunity to share the facts and answer any questions. His honesty, integrity and desire to serve are the hallmark of his campaign, giving of his time, energy and skills for the betterment of the schools, helping the children and the families... now and in the future! He has met the negative barrage of inaccuracies with clarity, honesty and integrity. 

It is so easy to take pot shots at people electronically.  So may the future hold only a higher road of handling all questions of any nature to any candidate. The children  are our future.  Mr. David Miller would be an outstanding and dedicated member who will serve  for the good of the  Deer Creek Schools.  Freedom of speech is never more honored than when we lift people up in fairness and respect!  .............Dianne Knoll

Parent Post 3: To whom it may concern,

I have known David Miller since 1968.  I have worked at Southwestern Bell along side him for our entire careers. Professionally, you will not find a more focused leader and excellent problem solver.  His creative thinking and business sense are second to none.

David is the most honest, forthright and upstanding man I have known in my life.  I have read about the growth patterns in the Deer Creek area and can honestly tell you that David can help.  His business skills and innovative thinking can definitely help your District.  It sounds like you desperately need a business leader and David is the best there is.

Respectfully,
J.D. Colbert
Retired from SWB

Parent Post 4: On the eve of the school board election, we as a community need to remember one thing.

Shelley Denton needs to be removed from her seat on the school board.  As a female Danny Barnes, she has shown repeatedly that she is not capable of providing the service this district needs.

Both Mr. Miller and Dr. Shanbour bring positive attributes to the table.  Both also bring negative.

The risk in having two strong candidates is that they will divide the voters who are knowledgeable and care about this district.

If only the school board election were on the ballot, I have no doubt that Mrs. Denton would receive less than 10% of the vote.

The problem is the uninformed voters that are out voting in the Presidential primary and check the first box on the ballot.

It is vital that you visit your next door neighbor who doesn’t have children in the school district.  Make 2-3 phone calls and you will make a world of difference. 

You may choose to tell them who you endorse, you may not.  The key is they need to vote for ANYBODY BUT DENTON.

I typically try to remember that it is always possible for things to get worse.  In this situation, as long as Denton is removed from the board, I don’t believe this to be possible.

Perhaps Dr. Barnes needs to understand the term radical as “One who advocates fundamental or revolutionary changes in current practices.”  I would suppose the King saw the colonists as radicals when they were trying to gain their freedom.

We’ve had enough, it’s time for change!

Parent Post 1: I have known the Miller family and David Miller for over 30 years. I believe David Miller is the best candidate for the Deer Creek School Board. If you want the Deer Creek School Board to run effectively, financially, and with much better communication to all patrons- then look at David Miller's record in "Business"! That's what you want EXPERIENCE in Business. Yes, volunteering is important and knowledge of all school activities...but a school board helps run the district and with hope it is done effectively. That can only be done with a SOLID background of business and management.

On a personal note, David Miller's ethics are impeccable! To question this man's honesty, integrity or any part of his past would be down right ridiculous! I know David has taken the high road on this episode of personal attacks, sometimes I wish he hadn't. I will say this, if you have nothing in your past you are embarrassed of, then you have nothing to hide...and David Miller has Never had anything to hide!

Parent Post 2: In addition to the flyer I received from Shelly Denton (what did that cost?!), I have now received TWO pre-recorded calls, one last night and one first thing this morning, urging me to keep Deer Creek the same great place by voting for Denton.  The one yesterday was recorded entirely by Shelly herself; the one this morning starts with someone else speaking on her behalf and ends with Denton again.  Both concluded with her phone number, in case I wanted to call her!

Why would I call her now?  We have voiced our concerns in PTO meetings, attended school board meetings only to see her do NOTHING.  She is visible at many school/district functions but there seems to be NO action!  What we mean when we say that she must be from another planet is that she has continually ignored the very real issues of this district.  In fact, by being at all these various functions she should be MORE aware of the issues and be more dedicated to helping solve them.  Yet her platform is more of the same - business as usual. 

The time for Shelly Denton to listen is over.  She (and the Board) has ignored us for long enough.  It's time for the patrons to speak by voting her out.   Crisis is exactly what this district is facing.  We need serious solutions and action, NOW.  Tuesday will show whether this district is truly interested in getting on the right track or if we are all about cliques, back-patting and living in LA-LA land.  If the Board won't take action, we need to ~ vote for change!