Parents angry after son goes missing By VICTOR MORALES, Staff Writer
Wednesday, January 30, 2008 10:15 PM PST
JOSELITO VILLERO PHOTO
Alfonso Martinez speaks about his anger toward Jefferson Elementary School Principal Lucio Padillo Jr. while holding son Alfonso Jr., 5, on his lap. Martinez’s wife, Angelina, holds the couple’s 5-month-old daughter, Angelique, at their Calexico residence Wednesday.
CALEXICO When a kindergartner went missing for 30 minutes at Jefferson Elementary School earlier this month, school officials didn’t call police, despite a policy that requires police be alerted five minutes after a student is reported lost.
School Principal Lucio Padilla Jr. didn’t come out of a meeting to oversee the search for 5-year-old Alfonso Martinez Jr. and doesn’t know how the child was eventually recovered, Alfonso’s mother, Angelina, said.
Padilla said he doesn’t regret the way he handled the incident because the “child was found safe.”
But that’s not good enough for Angelina and her husband, Alfonso Martinez Sr. They claim the incident demonstrates how Padilla, still in his first year as principal, is indifferent to safety and unwilling to admit he mishandled the incident.
Young Alfonso walked off the campus on the morning of Jan. 7, the first day of school following the winter vacation. He had requested to go to the bathroom while in class. He was supposed to be accompanied by another student, Padilla said. But he wasn’t and walked off campus to get his cough medicine at his home.
Angelina Martinez said Alfonso had been taking the medicine throughout the break and must have thought he still needed it.
“In his little mind, he thought he should take it and he went to get it. But he doesn’t know the way home,” she said. The school is seven blocks from the Martinez residence.
After 10 minutes, Alfonso’s teacher reported him missing, Padilla said. Four school employees, including a clerk, custodian and nurse, were dispatched to search the school and the surrounding area, Padilla said. The police were not called because the incident was not deemed serious enough.
“We tried to make a reasonable decision and there was no reason to believe the student was in harm or he had been kidnapped,” Padilla said.
Instead a school representative drove to the Martinez residence to see if Alfonso had shown up there. He wasn’t and Angelina raced to the school.
“I was crying and went to go look for him,” she said.
Her husband was already there “frantically” searching for his son.
When Angelina arrived at the school she saw a car arrive at the front of the school and a “little head” on the passenger seat. Angelina ran to it. It was Alfonso.
“I didn’t even ask questions, I opened the door and just grabbed him,” Angelina said.
The man who brought Alfonso looked like he could be in high school and told Angelina he saw the boy walking a few blocks down the road and looking lost. The man never gave his name.
“We would like to talk to him and thank him. Anything could have happened if he hadn’t found him,” Angelina Martinez said.
Padilla did not come out to meet Alfonso’s parents during the search. A vice principal met them and apologized, Angelina said.
Padilla said he was informed of the incident while in a meeting with another parent and was “very confident” his staff could handle the situation.
“I like to know that the school is in good hands and can act adequately when I’m not there,” Padilla said. Padilla also said “safety” was his priority.
But the Martinezes said the incident shows how Padilla has been historically standoffish to parents in his short time as the school’s top administrator. It is not the first time Padilla has ignored requests from parents, Angelina Martinez said.
Double parking and other hazardous conditions persist at the school during drop-off and pickup times despite requests from parents to mitigate them.
But what upsets the family most is their claim that Padilla is unwilling to accept responsibility. They say he has been unapologetic.
Padilla said he has tried to discuss the incident with the family on two occasions. Those conversations were not cordial, he said. The Martinezes have turned to the school district.
“Unfortunately they have chosen to communicate with the district and that’s fine,” Padilla said.
Padilla said he has taken the incident seriously and has re-emphasized the five-minute policy. Teachers are also required to report a child missing after five minutes of not returning from the bathroom.
Padilla said he has run three drills to test teachers, pulling out students seen going to the bathroom and keeping them in the office to see if teachers will react. In addition gates have been reinforced with latches high enough to keep students from reaching them. There has been additional monitoring.
“A lot of good things have come of this,” Padilla said.
Gina Sanchez, assistant superintendent of educational services for the school district, said the incident has resonated throughout the district. All 12 principals have been required to submit their policies regarding missing students.
“Let me tell you that after the incident occurred a meeting was called with all the principals to make sure this does not get repeated,” she said.
Alfonso Martinez Sr., the boy’s father, said he was still too angry to talk the principal.
“I am not doing this to disgrace his name; I am doing this to change a bad system for all the students,” he said.
Padilla said he understands Martinez’s resentment. But Padilla maintains he acted properly.
“The only thing I regret is that the student went missing,” Padilla said.
" cut him a break now!!!!!
mr. paddilla sent a letter with every children from jefferson admitting his mistake and apologizing to everyone and even the family who this happened to...he also had a meeting yesterday regarding this...so i think since he alreay admitted to his mistake and said im sorry...and knows he did wrong lets drop it.....i will cuz in his letter and in the meeting, i am as a parent satisfied with what he said and his safety percautions now. i think if something like this ever happens again things will be handled differently. "
Puma wrote on Feb 6, 2008 11:56 PM:
" Give strangeboy a break. There was a time when you didn't know how to spell. "
strangeboy wrote on Feb 6, 2008 5:59 PM:
" I think mr.padilla should be sue by the parents. and like he doesn't know how to be a principal, why don't they change him before something else happens again. "
Poli'voz wrote on Feb 5, 2008 8:19 PM:
" Haver como le sale la chamaca...ujule 'mano! "
Poli'voz wrote on Feb 5, 2008 8:17 PM:
" Fregado esquinqle. o como dice mi'apa huerquito mal educado! "
jtorres wrote on Feb 5, 2008 6:12 PM:
" This should have been handled differntly. I wonder does the pricipal have kids of his own to understand why it is so important?? Even if he doesn't he should have notified police. He didn't think the child was kidnapped???? That's just it he didn't think. Well something good did come out of this but, I know the parents still must worry and the Principal should realize that he messed up "
marisa wrote on Feb 5, 2008 6:08 PM:
" ultimately and no matter what, it is the school's responsibility to secure the child's safety; and yes, I do expect my child's school to know where my 5 yr old is at all times; they have 'policies' in place for a reason; this problem began when the teacher allowed this child to go to the restroom alone; if that policy had been enforced by the teacher, this would not have happened; the rest is a domino effect by having the principal not make it a priority to personally attend to the situation and then make really dumb statements; blaming the child is ridiculous; the most well-educated 5 yr old is liable to sometimes do things that go against what she's been taught; the teacher and principal need to be reprimanded severely; it is by sheer good fortune that the kid is safe "
Prov3 wrote on Feb 5, 2008 7:55 AM:
" I agree with you, "Calecian". "
The_Valley wrote on Feb 4, 2008 10:19 PM:
" Mrs. Garcia aka "It's me" should tell exactly what Calecian and Leneeg said to Gina Sanchez since she is so butt hurt along with the parents. "
whoopie wrote on Feb 4, 2008 9:41 PM:
" Don't tell that to Mrs. Gina Sanchez. "
leneeg wrote on Feb 4, 2008 7:23 PM:
" Calecian has a valid point about the JOB of a principal. Unfortunately the vast majority of people who go into administration would rather administrate than teach, so they lose touch of what teachers go through as the years go by. So much so that administrators are completely out of touch on what goes on in the classroom. For some, this age old adage holds true; "Those who can't teach, goe on to administrate." "
Calecian wrote on Feb 4, 2008 1:39 PM:
" I absolutely agree that parents should teach their children about the dangers of walking out of school, talking to strangers, etc. That being said...in the event that a child disappears while he's in the care of his school, the principal's initial reaction should be to do everything possible - personally - to find that child and not to automatically be concerned with deflecting blame towards the parents. It's very telling when Mr. Padilla says, "Unfortunately they have chosen to communicate with the district and thats fine," when he obviously means that it's, in fact, NOT fine to him. Of course, this is expecting a lot from somebody, but the job of a principal should only be held by people who value the safety and education of their students - for the sake of the children and not their own public image. If we think that's too much to ask, then we're setting our expectations way too low for our educators and administrators. "
It's him again wrote on Feb 4, 2008 9:00 AM:
" "It's Me" is none other than Marc Shapiro. The numerous one-after-another posts and reference to San Diego give him away. "
2020 wrote on Feb 3, 2008 11:16 PM:
" Some parents have to work for a living. It takes two incomes to raise a family in most cases. Some parents aren't educated enough themselves to homeschool. Some parents don't have the money to send their kids to private school. So they have to trust their kids to the public school system. Home school is great but not for everyone. But how sad is it that when your child goes to school you have to wonder about the adults who are in charge of their safty and well being. "
Wesley wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:39 PM:
" Homeschool, homeschool, homeschool! Stop sending your kids to government indoctrination centers where they are treated as nothing more than cattle. "
soulman wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:37 PM:
" if if if, all these if's. if my aunt had balls, she'd be my uncle.
Parents should stop trying to pass the blame, take some responsibility and teach their kids some common sense. "
Wesley wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:34 PM:
" If the parents took the time to homeschool, this problem would have never arisen. "
Not a zoot suit wrote on Feb 3, 2008 8:58 PM:
" "zoot suit"
with a name like that you must be a loser.
"it's me" is definitely Mrs. Garcia, not Martinez??, I don't think Mr. Martinez can speak or write in English. He looks like a "chicalon." "
ZOOT SUIT wrote on Feb 3, 2008 5:34 PM:
" What's is done. Your all a bunch of crybabies pointing fingers. I'm watching the game, so long losers. "
Moderator wrote on Feb 3, 2008 5:01 PM:
" So... breaking it down:
1. Teacher 45% at fault. (This is the weak link)
2. Principal 40% at fault.(For not leading like a leader)
4. Parents 15% at fault for not doing their part in teaching the child at home. Remember, when everything else fails (like the people above), a well taught child will always remember what their parents have induced upon them at home.
"
Moderator wrote on Feb 3, 2008 4:48 PM:
" Kids, let's go through this step by step, without "what if's"
1. Child went to restroom by himself. TEACHER AT FAULT.
2. Child did not return in reasonable time. TEACHER FAILED to keep track, therefore at fault.
Miscommunication problems from step 2 to 3. Story not specific enough to imply what happened next. But...
3. Principal should have stopped everything immediately.
4. Police should have been called. Parents notified.
5. Principal should have been at the "front lines" of the situation, giving his full attention to the parents and the whole situation.
6. When child was brought in by unknown man, Principal again, should have stopped the rescuer and asked questions and waited for police to arrive from search, if in case there wasn't one present at the scene.
7. Principal should have concluded the incident with an apology and should have brought the teacher in to speak with all parties involved.
8. Teacher should've apologized for what she did or failed to do.
9. Parents need to assure something like this never happens and write a grievance report with school district and check credentials of Teacher involved.
10. Parents should, regardless of what anyone says, teach their child the dangers of walking away from school. "
Realist wrote on Feb 3, 2008 2:31 PM:
" To "Missing The Point":
What if an alien spaceship came down and abducted a dozen or so kids and teachers? What if a plane crashed on campus? What if the sun didnt rise tomorrow morning? Your statement is all a bunch of "what if's" and none of it occured. Stck tothe facts.
Listen folks - I taught for 9 years in an urban area in a major California city - not a town like Calexico. There are problems indemic to both areas - Calexico has its share of child molestors, just like everywhere, but this is not about child abductors nor molestors. It DIDN'T happen in this case. Chill out and everyone stick to the facts - the parents AND school are at fault. Oh and not every classroom has it's own bathroom, so the kids HAVE to leave the room to crap and such. Deal with it. "
Missing the point wrote on Feb 3, 2008 2:08 PM:
" The following statement is to give you a different point of view. Let's pretend he's your son. Some school officials notify you that your son is missing. When you realize they have not called the police, you call them. Later, the police notify you: your son has been found dead. Your son did not walk off the campus, but kidnapped by a child molester. Would your parenting skills have made a difference? Would your son's excellent behavior have a made a difference? Would the school's SAFETY PLAN have made a difference? As a member of the school site counsel at my child's school, the safety plan states that the POLICE should be notified after a student is missing only 5 minutes NOT 30 OR ?; and not wait for a parent half out of his mind to do it. So to the Martinez family KEEP ON FIGHTING!!! You might be saving a child's life. "
it's you and you know it wrote on Feb 3, 2008 1:08 PM:
" Well it sure took you five different post for you to say much about anything, you could easily have made your comments into one post. Seriously, you do "act" like a relative, If not, would the real Mrs. Martinez, please stand up? didn't think so. "
IT'S ME!! wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:26 PM:
" HAHAHAHAHA THAT IS SOOOOOOOO FUNNY HOW YOU THINK I AM MRS. MARTINEZ!!! HAHAHA FIRST OF ALL I AM NOT A RESIDENT OF THE IMPERIAL VALLEY SO HOW COULD I BE MRS. MARTINEZ!! SD BABY! "
Puro Calecia wrote on Feb 3, 2008 12:09 PM:
" the newspaper should follow the story with an interview with the "angel" that brought the boy to school. he should also recieve a good sameritan award of some kind. the principal should be thanking him cuz if the kid wasn't found all hell would of broken loose and he would of definetly been punished. I also heard the most schools in the calexico unified school disrict have incompetent fire alarms which in case of an fire or an emergency there's a high possiblity the alarms won't go off, endangering a lot of schoolchildren's life including teacers and other staff as well. iv press should look into the fire alarms at calexico schools. im serious on this one. many employees are threaten t lose their jobs if u complain, myself included. "
leneeg wrote on Feb 3, 2008 11:15 AM:
" Lunchlady is correct in her message about this article. There was a breakdown in the system, luckily it all turned out well and no one was harmed. But let this be a lesson learned on how to not let it happen again. Learn from this. "
lunchlady86 wrote on Feb 3, 2008 10:13 AM:
" The issue on this matter is that there was a breakdown on school procedure. Beginning from the moment the teacher realized the student was missing. Wether or not this child has been taught what is right or wrong is irrelevant. He is ONLY 5 yrs old. He should not have been sent to the restroom by himself. I disagree with the comments blaming the parents or insinuating that they expect the school to babysit their children. We send our children to school to learn. We expect them to be safe. We expect our school personnel to FOLLOW PROCEDURE to ensure that our children are learning in a safe enviroment. One child getting lost is too many. This little boy had an angel watching over him. Thank god it turned out good. Stop pointing fingers and get involved instead. All that energy could be used to meet with school personnel to work out ways to ensure that this breakdown in communication and procedure does not happen again in any of our schools. "
Wesley wrote on Feb 2, 2008 11:27 PM:
" You can blame the school all you want. How consoling would that be if your child ever did get abducted? Ultimiately, the parents are repsonsible for their children. When you let the government babysit your kids all day, you turn the safety of your kids over to people that can't possibly give all their attention to your child. If freedom from your children for a few hours is more important than protecting them from the increased threat of abduction, then by all means, keep sending them to public school. "
Zoot Suit wrote on Feb 2, 2008 10:48 PM:
" Mrs. Martinez got nailed! LMAO. "
ITS YOU wrote on Feb 2, 2008 9:41 PM:
" okay.."ITS ME!!!"...you blew your cover. We already know you are Mrs. Martinez. "
IT'S ME!! wrote on Feb 2, 2008 9:34 PM:
" TO: WOW!!!!
I HAPPEN TO KNOW FOR A FACT THAT ALFONSO COMES FROM A GOOD FAMILY. IS NOT A DISCIPLINE PROBLEM AND HAS ALREADY BEEN STUDENT OF THE MONTH! BUT KIDS ARE KIDS AND SOMETIMES THEY HAVE OFF DAYS! ONLY A PARENT WOULD UNDERSTAND THIS!!! ANY EDUCATED PERSON WOULD UNDERSTAND THAT CHILDREN GO THROUGH DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES DIFFERENTLY!! I AM SURE THAT IF YOU ASK HIS TEACHER SHE WOULD AGREE! "
IT'S ME wrote on Feb 2, 2008 9:27 PM:
" ALL YOU PEOPLE THAT ARE MAKING COMMENTS AGAINST THE FAMILY ARE ONLY GOING BY WHAT WAS PUBLISHED. THE FACT IS THAT YOU CANNOT BE CERTAIN THAT THE PARENTS HAVE NOT TAUGHT THE CHILD OR THAT THE PARENTS WERE NOT THE ONES THAT CONTACTED THE POLICE, AND THAT THEY HAD NOT TRIED TO SETTLE THIS BEFORE GOING PUBLIC!! THE BOTTOM LINE IS THAT THE SCHOOL IS RESPONSIBLE NO MATTER WHAT! WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN WHEN ANOTHER STUDENT GETS LOST? THAT STUDENT MIGHT BE YOURS! WOULD YOU LIKE NOTHING TO BE DONE? "
IT'S ME!!! wrote on Feb 2, 2008 9:21 PM:
" Have you guys not seen shows on T.V. for example Dateline when parents tell their young ones not to go or talk to strangers, and even when they enforce it they do it! IT is a perfect example that every child thinks differently and reguardless if you tell them don't there is that possibilty that they will! NOT EVERY PARENT IS PERFECT! NOT EVERY FIVE YEAR OLD IS PERFECT! .... "
IT'S ME!! wrote on Feb 2, 2008 9:14 PM:
" It is funny to read all these comments about who is to blame! It is very childish to call the parents morrons, and that they need to discipline their child more. First, you cannot spank a child because they did wrong, you will have Child Protective Services in a heartbeat. Honestly the school is to blame because they should be taking care of there students at all times. According to the school policy they are liable for students during school hours. "
teachrnclx wrote on Feb 2, 2008 6:46 PM:
" "Wow,"
Wow!! Perfectly said. As a teacher I know exactly what you mean. "
Finally wrote on Feb 2, 2008 5:20 PM:
" Finally, someone speaks the truth! "
You got that right wrote on Feb 2, 2008 5:20 PM:
" Perfectly said, Wow! "
Wow wrote on Feb 2, 2008 4:29 PM:
" If anyone has ever taught a kindergarten class, you know that there are two types of children. The first are those who have been taught right from wrong and who are held responsible for their actions by their parents. These are ALWAYS the most successful kids in school. The other type of student is the one who is "just a baby" or
"he's only five, don't expect much of him". These kids are coddled by their parents and not held accountable for their actions. They can do no wrong because they are "just kids". There parents are usually the same, blaming others for their faults. These parents obviously fall into the second kinds of parents mentioned in that they think it is everyone else's fault their child left school. IC has over 3,000 kindergarten students, and maybe 3-4 walk away from school each year. The rest know better because their PARENTS have taught them to obey the rules, do what the teacher says and be a good student. These parents in the article are more about finding reasons to blame others than accept the fact that they are the primary reason their child did not behave properly. "
ching-juajua wrote on Feb 2, 2008 2:58 PM:
" When I attended Jefferson school many, many moons ago('71), there were restrooms in Mrs. Green classroom. Of course it was when there wasn't alot of mexicali kids, now it is hard for the schools to have the facilities in the trailers. Move the kid to the new school, seems to me they have everything over there. But everywhere he goes from now on, he will be known for a little trouble maker. Even though the teacher was the responsible one, he obviously don't mind well. Shame on the teacher!! Why doesn't anyone here mention her lack of responsiblity? The parents should look into her credentials, not the principle. Some "teachers" are now able teach without getting their full teaching credentials, I'd be looking into that. Still the kid needs to behave better. "
sil wrote on Feb 2, 2008 2:24 PM:
" Mr. and Mrs. Martinez:
My hat off for reacting quickly to your child's missing!!! Padilla's not notifying Calexico's Police Dept. was just another blundering action on his part. He is arrogant in thinking he can keep emergencies "under the covers" by not asking Law Enforcement for help!
Why was little Alfonso walking out of the classroom to go to the restroom? Was he in a trailer with no bathroom facilities???
Calexico School District.... How about stepping up to the plate and providing better facilities for the little ones??? "
initialu wrote on Feb 2, 2008 12:39 PM:
" Holababy, spanked is good. It worked for me. And i still feel it after 40 years.LOL "
ex-clx wrote on Feb 2, 2008 11:22 AM:
" 1. As a parent we do our best to teach our children right from wrong. It's funny to read about parents who pride themselves for their parenting skills and then disparage Martinez and Garcia for theirs. Both parents went to the scene to look for their son. Maybe they "assumed" the school staff had already called the police. I don't know. I wasn't there.
2. As an educator, many times administrators will not admit they did wrong. And believe me, every school district has them. Look at Southwest with the gun issue. The only way administrators will really listen is when you mention lawsuit or I'll be bringing in my lawyer.
3. Padilla is having a tough time being a new principal. His staff is not too wild about him or his ideas. Is he arrogant-tell me what principal is not-some more than others. Arrogance is one of the traits of (any)leadership. He made the error to be arrogant on print.
All I can say is that I am glad that Alfonso Jr. is safe. "
holababy wrote on Feb 2, 2008 10:56 AM:
" initialu, i mean spanked.
i would spanked his butt--for leaving school, than again for getting into a car with someone he does not know, than i would of spanked him for upseting his mother. than i would spanked him for making me leave work to come find him.
after all of that--i would make him tell the teacher and all school employees that he was sorry for his actions.
its a simple thing. "
initialu wrote on Feb 2, 2008 10:27 AM:
" Hoababy, you mean disciplined. You need to instruct the child, Teach him and let him know right from wrong. If you are a parent it is a learning process, punishing a child is not the solution to the problem. I am a parent and believe me it is not an easy task and i am not perfect. With all due respect. "
hoababy wrote on Feb 2, 2008 9:50 AM:
" lacosta--you think i dont know the boy is 5 years old ?
you think there is a certain age when a child "knows" right from wrong ? you think it is magic ?
assuming the boy has been instructed by the school and his parents that he was not to leave school under any conditions.
he chose to the wrong thing.
he should be punished by the school and parents.
if a search how been conducted by police, firemen and other public employees----the parents should pay for it.
"
mexicanrose wrote on Feb 2, 2008 7:16 AM:
" Stupid people. Race has nothing to do with what the teacher didn't do. But coming from my hispanic point of view, if this would've happened to a caucasian family, I bet the parents wouldn't have hesitated to call the police themselves. Idiot parents in this situation and like most of us hispanics, rely on what other say(Unfortunelty).
So to the Martinez family: You are to blame too! Just because the principle hasn't apologized to you, you had to drag it out in the open. You waited, just like you waited to call the police.
Go home and teach your children right, scare the little kid out of his witts, maybe he will learn something. "
yuhaman35 wrote on Feb 2, 2008 5:48 AM:
" How do you locos come up with these user names? Oops, don't ask. Nevermind. Just trying to change the subject for the next 100 comments. Peace. "
politicallycorrect wrote on Feb 2, 2008 12:33 AM:
" It's either homeschool or a private school. No one has even brought up the issue that it was a "VERY URGENT" matter when the border is so close. In that short time does anyone realize that this child could have been in another country, in a city of well over 1Million. Maybe the PRESS misquoted, I Doubt it, but this principal does sound arrogant and to me it doesn't show any sign of responsibilty. And as far as the RACE thing brought up, MADISON SMITH would have been put on an all out "AMBER ALERT" within 15 minutes. Lastly, why hasn't the press made any effort to contact the true "HERO" in this entire story, the person who brought the child back to the school. "
Wesley wrote on Feb 1, 2008 11:12 PM:
" This is what you get in government schools. When the government monopolizes a service or industry you get incompetence with no accountability. If you want to be sure your kids are safe, then homeschool. Nobody cares about your kids like you do. "
Just a question? wrote on Feb 1, 2008 11:03 PM:
" There are two sides to every story. By the way, why didn't the parents call the police. They acted just like the school. The went out looking for the child on their own. i guess they didn't feel their child was in any more danger than the school felt. Ease up on Mr. Padilla. There is enough blame to go each way. "
Just a question? wrote on Feb 1, 2008 10:56 PM:
" There are two sides to every story. By the way, why didn't the parents call the police. They acted just like the school. The went out looking for the child on their own. i guess they didn't feel their child was in any mother danger than the school felt. Ease up on Mr. Padilla. There is enough blame to go each way. "
teachrnclx wrote on Feb 1, 2008 10:49 PM:
" lacosta,
what's up with the bong jokes? I thought they quit playing "Cheech and Chong" on Q96 in December??
People, do you honestly think the principal has not apologized to these morons, I mean parents?
Everyone get a grip this is true IV Press coverage for Calexico. You want to sell papers, then you go to Calexico and bash every Mexican leader in site, from City Hall to Jefferson Elementary.
This incident happened almost 3 weeks ago, why is it barely getting reported? Is it because no one wants to listen to Mr. "Don't Want to Smear Your Name" Martinez? From the school board to the police department? Nobody has paid attention to him. I wonder why?? This guy needs some attention and who does he want to bring down? A fellow Mexican who has suceeded more than he has. As Danny Santillan would say, "Ay, Raza!!" "
teachrnclx wrote on Feb 1, 2008 10:35 PM:
" "calecian"
What in the world are you talking about? The principal using aliases?? Get real, I think this guy has gone through the wringer enough. Maybe we have teachers who don't like him at his school using aliases?? Maybe it's his wife??? Come on, grow up homie!!! "
lacosta wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:16 PM:
" holababy, put the bong down and getta grip!This is a "FIVE" year old child your dealing with!Your comments are bring you down to "pre-school" level.This child is in the learning stages of his life,unfortunatly he's not a genius like you.I've never heard of one at that age.
Teachrnclx, spoken like a true liberal union zombie!You need to back to school and get educated!This is not a teenage kid we're talking about."Kindergarten" Do you know the difference? Maybe you need to put the bottle down and find a different occupation! "
susflores wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:01 PM:
" ...I wonder if the child is taught safety precaution at home. Don't open the door, don't cross the street and dont talk to strangers. Sorry Mr. and Mrs. Martinez, you must've gotten the scare of your life but you need to ask yourself if you are doing your part in teaching this child the valuable lessons in life, he will need them. "
susflores wrote on Feb 1, 2008 8:54 PM:
" The Principal should offer a meeting to all the parents of Jefferson School. He should apologize and give his side of the story. even though I personally think it was wrong he didn't do much about the situation, he shouldn't have assumed the child was fine. BUT, let's all remember there are two sides to the story, so let's wait to see what he has to say.
I agree with Miss Y... The child is old enough to know what is wrong. a five year old knows what not to do, I would've given the parents more credit on why the kid left the school IF it was the beginning of the school year....but it isn't. This child knows better.
I truly believe the parents spoil the kid too much. This "in his little mind" come on! Bullc@@p. The parents are trying to make it seem the kid doesnt know much about anything. Oh but he sure knows he needs his medication, yeah right. And also, how long does it take for a child to memorize the way home? It is January, half way through the school year he knows his way home....
"
holababy wrote on Feb 1, 2008 5:25 PM:
" 2020--maybe i am---but i never blamed public school employees for the actions of my children.
"
2020 wrote on Feb 1, 2008 5:05 PM:
" holababy,
YOU'RE NUTS ! ! ! "
holababy wrote on Feb 1, 2008 4:51 PM:
" calecian--as everyone knows, parents are responsible for a childs actions at all times.
if a kid gives another a black eye in a fight at school---somehow the school is responsible ?
if a kid flunks all his class's, somehow the school is responsible ?
the school has no responsbility for a child that leaves school grounds.
if your children are "missing" i dont suggest you "go crazy" or "sob and cry" and demand everyone give you answers.
anction vs hysterics is always the answer.
child protective services should be calling on these parents to make sure they are not endangering thier children.
the boy does not seem to know right from wrong.
"
calecian wrote on Feb 1, 2008 4:00 PM:
" People....this is a five year-old child. When a kid is in school, that school is responsible for his safety and welfare. The people who have been saying that, somehow, this incident was the parents' fault are either ignorant or must be, in fact, the principal himself using several aliases to defend himself here. "
holababy wrote on Feb 1, 2008 3:48 PM:
" its about time the parents were taught a lesson.
they should be required to attend class with their kid till he can find his way to the bathroom and understands what it means to attend school and stay there.
"
holababy wrote on Feb 1, 2008 3:38 PM:
" wikiscogg-- how could the school be in fault ?
they did not push the kid off campus. they did not tell him to lie aboug going to the bathroom and than leave the campus. seems that the parents are putting words in his mouth and rationalizing thier own behavior.
what have the parents been doing the last 5 years ?
"
mail wrote on Feb 1, 2008 2:04 PM:
" IF YOU ARE A PARENT AND HAVE EVER LOST YOUR KID ONE MINUTE TWO MINUTES YOU KNOW THE FEELING!!!IT IS A VERY VERY BIG DEAL!!!!AS A PARENT YOU TEACH YOUR KIDS TO DO THE RIGHT THINGS BUT UNLIKE HOLABABY KIDS NOT ALL KIDS ARE PERFECT SOME MAKE MISTAKES...WHAT OFFENSE ME IS THE ATTITUDE OF MR. PADILLA...I ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT IT WOULD BE MY KID LEAVING THE SCHOOL BECAUSE HE DOESN'T LIKE TO GO TO SCHOOL..I PERSONALLY ASKED THE TEACHER ABOUT THIS AND HER ANSWER WAS THAT THE KIDS WERE SENT IN PAIRS...WHAT HAPPEN??? I WAS VERY CONCERN ABOUT THIS AND OFTEN REMINDED BY CHILD NOT TO LEAVE SCHOOL..WE AS PARENTS DO OUR PART BUT JEFFERSON ELMENTARY FAILED TO DO THEIRS. ALFONSO WAS SENT TO THE BATHROOM MY HIMSELF. HE WOULD HAVE BEEN SENT WITH ANOTHER KID LIKE I WAS TOLD I DON'T THINK THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPEN!!!THATS WHY I UNDERSTAND WHAT ALFONSO'S PARENTS ARE GOING THROUGH.....LET JUST HOPE THE MR. PADILLA REALIZES HIS MISTAKE AND GIVE US PARENTS WITH OUR KIDS IN THIS SCHOOL PEACE OF MIND....ALL I WANT IS NOT TO WORRY WHEN MY CHILD IS AT SCHOOL AND I THINK THAT IS A FAIR REQUEST... "
2bad4u wrote on Feb 1, 2008 12:55 PM:
" "Visitor_from_another_world", you truly are from another world as you seem to be in a completely different orbit. Let us know when you come back down to earth. Thank God we valleyites don't have the same issues as the "big city" folks do. With kids being killed by their own babysitters, kidnapped from within their own homes, etc. Yeah, proud to be a "local yokel" where we still have good people that find a lost child and safely return him to school. No thanks to the school principal, though. "
calecian wrote on Feb 1, 2008 12:26 PM:
" Its absolutely unconscionable that the head administrator of an elementary school would accept no responsibility for what happened here. The VERY first thing he shouldve done is apologize to the parents whether or not the parents were cordial to him or not. Mr. Padilla should act like a professional educator who takes responsibility for the children at his school and not a politician. "
Love_to_Stroke_It wrote on Feb 1, 2008 11:14 AM:
" How about closing the school gates? "
visitor_from_another_world wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:38 AM:
" Face it, you're all local yokels. "
holababy wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:22 AM:
" viking92120--your a moron--i played hooky in my first year in school. i wanted to go home and i left campus.
i will never forget what happen to me. my parrents did not blam the school. i was 5.
i put myself above my parents and school rules .i paid for it.
my kids are all grown up and are great people--more than i can say for you. "
Long_Dong wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:21 AM:
" holababy - RIGHT ON!
Education begins in the home - NOT in school. WE as parents are our childrens biggest educators.
Mr. Martinez and Ms. Garcia need to own up to that. "
holababy wrote on Feb 1, 2008 9:15 AM:
" 1234red--if you going to have kids--take the responceablity of raising them.
you dont spank your children ?
enough said---your have no clue how to raise children and want to blame other people for your lack ability to communitcate with your children.
"
Prov3 wrote on Feb 1, 2008 8:53 AM:
" "dbrett480", no, I don't think if "little Ashley Madison" would have gone missing the school's reaction would have been any different. First of all, this situation had nothing to do with the child's race whatsoever. Second, the reason why the Calexico P.D., Sheriffs Dept., De Anza Rescue, etc., weren't out looking for him was because the Principal and his staff NEVER CONTACTED THE POLICE, which is in direct violation of the school district's policy. The police should have been contacted IMMEDIATELY after the teacher reported the child missing, then the school staff should have began the search of the school grounds and neighboring areas. Yes, little Alfonso should be taught never to leave school and never get in the car with a stranger. Realize, though, that he's only 5-years old and this is his first year of school. After this incident, I'm sure both Alfonso and his parents have learned from this. Let's hope that the principal and his staff have learned as well, as this situation could have easily turned out with a not-so-happy ending. "
mh wrote on Feb 1, 2008 8:31 AM:
" We seem to forget that parents are the first teachers and we leave all the responsibility to the schools and that is wrong. The learning should start at home! As for Mr. Padilla not taking a more active role as principal looking for a missing student was absolutely wrong! "
Willie_Or_Wont_He wrote on Feb 1, 2008 8:25 AM:
" It seems these parents are looking to lay blame - perhaps justifiably - on the school. Think back, when we were in school and left class to use the crapper..teachers have 30 or more other miscreants to baby-sit too. We knew we could be out 5, 10 minutes or longer and the teacher wouldnt notice. And that was in the days where almost every class had an Aide. Now with budget cuts, school staffing is at all time lows - Aides are scarce. The Martinez Family needs to educated their son better, and not to trust strangers. This story had a happy ending - thankfully, but if it didn't? Then what? Lynch the Principal? There was a total breakdown of procedure from the student to the teacher to the parents. This family will have a grudge against the school now and the school will cower when their name is mentioned. We deal with "blind faith" assuming our kids are all safe and secure when they leave the home to go to school. It ain't always the case... wake up minnions. "
FYI wrote on Feb 1, 2008 8:19 AM:
" All you stupid people who use God in your comments need to know the word God should alway be capitalized... at least give him some respect in doing so. "
rfaulknr wrote on Feb 1, 2008 7:37 AM:
" Ok there abviously is alot of miss imformed people. The child is FIVE YEARS OLD! Alls he has to worry about is going to school and eating. This little boy obviously likes to go to school sense he WANTED to take his medicine to stay better. The poor little boy didnt know any better. How can you blame the parents we all teach our kids what to do and what not to it depends if they listen. He was told to take his medicine go to school do this and that, Im sure the last thing he was told to do was take his medicine and thats all he thought of not stepping out of school. Most little boys love going to school why in the world would he want to miss out. He didnt know any better and shame on all of you people who think other wise. AND SHAME On That idiotic Principle god rest you soul! Dont be a principle at a school if you obviously dont care. Please kick this man out of school for he is the one who obviously doesnt want to be there.
Im sorry this happened to you, you as parents handled it! "
justjill68 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:52 PM:
" ARE YOU KIDDING ME??? I can't even believe I am reading this story. First of all a five year old does not have the ability to rationalized his actions. Five year olds just think something in their little heads and say it or do it. This poor baby was just acting like a five year old. But for Padilla, I can't believe an adult, who is responsible for a whole school of children, just brushes it off like no big deal. This is a HUGE deal. A childs life is the deal. I don't care if he was in a meeting with the Pope, he should have immediatley called 911 and then got his butt out there and every available staff member who wasn't tending to children and searched for this child. That's just how you do it. No if's ands or buts. Why was this not the way it happened? He says that he likes to think the children are in good hands if he's not there. First of all a five year old went missing, and YOU WERE THERE!!!!!!!! "
teachrnclx wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:09 PM:
" " This is Angelina Garcia the mother of Alfonso Martinez Jr. I would like to thank those who have shown their support throughout this ordeal, and for those who have questioned my parenting skills may GOD BLESS YOU!!!:) "
Mrs. Garcia, this comment just goes to show everyone how truly immature you and your husband are. As a Christian, it really offends me that you would even include such a dumb statement as you have in this blog in regards to "God."
Mr. Padilla I will pray for you and your staff for having to deal with parents such as Mr. Martinez and Mrs. Garcia who are only out for attention (and not accepting blame )and helping the IV Press sell papers about good ol' "Calexico" as usual. "
newsguy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:03 PM:
" ooops, it's sneak out of school and class. Time for bedtime, good night. "
newsguy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:56 PM:
" Alfonso Jr. is a good kid and made a mistake. His parents shouldn't punish him and make him promise that this will be the last and few times he will sneak of out school. "
teachrnclx wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:49 PM:
" jerry25,
Don't be a hater!! It sounds like you have some hidden feelings for Mr. Padilla.
What is so sad about all these comments is that we all don't realize that a child can and will leave school grounds whenever they feel like it.
It happens everyday when students go home with another friend and no permission from parents and then the parents come to school hysterical looking for their kids. Of course, they blame everyone at the school site except for the kid and the poor parenting job they have done.
What this 5 year old needs is a good "butt" whooping and believe me he won't do it again.
Mr. and Mrs. Martinez should quit blaming Mr. Padilla and everyone at Jefferson and take some of the blame for this incident because of the poor job they have done at raising their child. Hello!! Walks home without permission, gets in a car with a stranger!! Shoot, I would be hysterical like Mr. Martinez states, for doing such a poor job as a parent.
Mr. Martinez get some "huevos" take some of the blame and quit mudraking Mr. Padilla!!! "
miss y wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:47 PM:
" My spelling below is awful(sleepy) but I also think a child at this age knows or should know not to walk away from school. I strongly feel the parents need to have a serious talk with the child (no spanking, no yelling) but simply getting to know what the child thinks it's safe for him to do. I don't think the cough medicine was on this childs mind at all, this was a made up story by the parent because if the child knows it's time for medication or feels he needs his meds. then he is smart enough to know what's right from wrong. Maybe he just didn't feel like going to class, kids are clever little suckers. But still, as parents we should be able to recognize their faults and virtues and always protect them from harm.
goodnite! "
chalecos wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:47 PM:
" Thats write. Gina is a reel Bulldog! "
miss y wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:33 PM:
" Gina Sanchez is an educated, professional and strict person and she will know how to handle this situation.
My question is, why on earth did the parents hesitiate to call the police?
Mr. Padilla should officially apologize to the parents and show more concerned for his pupils, he needs to address this situation soon before he sinks further, if he is not buried already. He will loose all respect from the parents at Jefferson.
I feel bad for him in a way but he should've put himself in those parents shoes. "
chalecos wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:16 PM:
" Pa que se hacen tontos los padres. P**chi chamaco es bien d**madr*zo. "
jerry25 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:15 PM:
" First of all i would like to say the principal and the teachers should be accounted for in this situation they put themselves in, lack of communication and lack of responsibility. i think prinicpal padilla is an idiot talking about it wasn't necessary to call the police.. if that was my child and you did not follow your own policy i would be asking the district for your credentials and also a major lawsuit. padilla should not be in a principal position because we all know the position is to big for him. not making good choices and talkin estupideses and try to lavarse las manos its not good for a principal image... i think you should be fired and never be given a credential in the state of california ever if you cant protect the student that you are accountable for and can't follow a damn simple school policy.... but i bet you can talk out your mouth pretty good all damn day with the secretary and faculty i bet you can do that better.... "
chalecos wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:10 PM:
" Maybe the school needs more staff. They no one take care of kids. Principal Padilla needs to learn from these. Parents help too. "
john & jane doe wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:03 PM:
" This is indeed an incident that cannot be left unattended. This is just one of many concerns that afflict our educational system. Have we forgotten our civil resposibilities? Or is it that incompetent people is given the chance to lead without having the slightest idea of how to lead. Is it ignoring a missing child justifiable. Of course not! There are more things that need to be addressed here. Staff should be granted more latitude when dealing with situations that deem adequate attention from emergency personnel, i.e. law enforcement, ems, and fire. Thank God this kid was returned unscatted. Good Samaritans still exist! Do not overlook this problem by not doing anything, I assure you it will happen again, CUSD will not do anything without citizens pushing for a solution. This Padilla guy will more than likely be relocated to another school or in the mildest case a slap on the hand....Follow this up!!!! And go Through IT... "
newsguy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:50 PM:
" Place the Principal on administrative leave. "
aanen123 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:26 PM:
" The kid is 5 -- he barely knows right from wrong. What parents make a point of saying " Don't try to walk home from school alone"? It's just not something you would think of teaching a child. Neither the child nor the parents are to blame here. The principal didn't handle it correctly, though; the police should have been called immediately, as well as the parents, to see if he indeed went home.
"
marygb wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:09 PM:
" I read the IV Press daily, and this is the largest blogging story I have ever seen. It tells me each and every blogger including some that make little if any sense, still care! Some blame the parent, teacher or principal. One blogger suggested a "nalgada y ya (spanking the child) Bottomline is: This story rattled the community and they chimmed in to share their feeling. Also tells me they are abreast of what goes on in their community. Scary time for the family, and this has brought an awareness to other parents. I hope they find the man who returned the child. It also sounds like Principal Padilla is slightly arrogant and assumes that his lack of presence in this frightening situation is not going to come back to bit him later. Someone, bake this man a "humble pie" especially since children are being entrusted into his care. Absolutely the teacher needs to be spoken to regarding her lack of ability to keep track of time while the child was out of her care. Shame on that teacher!! 30 minutes with a child out of sight is a long time. Give her/him time out!! "
chucktaylor80 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:00 PM:
" what if the guy molested him on the way to school.people don't be stupid!know one knows. "
bsgallegos16 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:57 PM:
" I think that Mr. Padilla is very wrong in not accepting responsibility for what happened although I understand he cant be in the whole school 24/7 watching every single kid. I have an ADHD son and teach him what I teach him he doesn't pay attention the same way other kids may do so, so I dont blame the mother for not parenting her son right because I understand that not all kids learn the same way, so for those moms who are blaming the mom, I think it is very dumb, not everyone is as fortunate as them...but at the same time, i also believe the parents should just thank god that their son is alright and try to get past the horrible situation. "
tod5114 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:52 PM:
" Don't blame the parents because their child is young and made a poor decision. It is good to know that Jefferson has a well trained staff but shame on Mr. Padilla for having such a hands-off approach. Maybe Mr. Padilla needs to grow more as a person before taking on a position of leadership. "
CHS_ALU wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:50 PM:
" As a parent I can understand what the Martinez family went through. I have gone through the torture of not knowing were my child was. But my first reaction was to call 911. I can't believe that no one on the school grounds called 911. It's true that the principal was on grounds, but that doesn't mean one shouldn't call for help (secretary or teacher). The whole school is held accountable. Here's another but, as principal (leader) he/she takes the blame. As a parent I would sue the school and district but not for money but I would go after the principal's administrative credential. A person who has behaved the way Mr. Padilla has does not deserve to have such credential. Reminds me back when a certain individual lost "her" administrative credential because she put another student in danger. This lady was a V.P at Calexico. I'm sure Mr. Padilla would agree with me because if the roles were reversed, he would do so too. And yes, I know for a fact Padilla has two very young children and is very protective of them. "
lacosta wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:30 PM:
" SonOfABeach,you better lose the meds!Also throw away the crack pipe! Read the story,if you can.That principal, Mr Padilla better quit drinking the koolaid and do his job. He is totally responsible for his students.Passing the buck on to someone else is stupid!When a parent sends a kid to school and that kid hits the classroom, it's the schools responsibility for his or her well being!You people that are blaming the parents better wake up! "
morrisonhotel wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:28 PM:
" In the article Mr. Martinez says he doesn't want to disgrace Mr. Padilla's name, he doesn't have worry about that. Mr. Padilla took care of that by opening his big mought. Everytime he opened his mouth he kept shooting himself in the foot. You can tell his a very arrogant person, not excepting some responsibilty for what happened shows what type a person he is. You can see that Padilla only thinks about self gain. "
susflores wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:20 PM:
" If this would've been my child, I would've blamed the Teacher first. Where was she/he? The teacher is to blame and the parents should complain mostly about her irresponsibility. I agree with soulman, The child should have been taught better on what not to do.
Sometimes it takes a scare like this to make teachers and staff realize they shouldn't get to comfortable when it comes to children. Anything may happen!
For example one of the things I hate about elementary schools is when a child is absent, the attendance clerk does not report it at all to the parents because they think the child is at home. In most cases parents don't call the school to report the absence until the next day...with a little note.
My concern is, what would happen if a parent sends their kid to school, and the child never makes it to class because either they ditch or the child was kidnapped? The parents wouldn't know until the end of the school day because the school failed to call and report the absence. Yet the parent is thinking the child is at school. The School system needs to change. "
kizzingyoumylove wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:58 PM:
" This incident reminds me of my son Ernesto when he was a first grader in 1982 in Oakley School and was sent in a bus by his so called teacher "BRUJA MENDOZA" my son was a walker and I was waiting for him outside the school and when he didn't come out, I went into the office to see what happened and I was told by the secretary that he was mistakingly sent in a bus. When I asked the idiot teacher, she laughed and said with a very sacarstic laugh OOOPS i guess i made a little mistake, and then she told me that if I wanted to find him I should go to all of the stops where the busses would stop to look for him. My 5 year old son walked 10 blocks from one end of Brawley to the other. Thank God he made it safe home but that day was the most scarriest one of them all for me and for my son. As for that WITCH, she should have been kicked out of the school system for been so irresponble. "
vanes007 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:43 PM:
" Que irresponsabilidad tan grande de esa Escuela!!!
Se supone q' tiene q' haber mas seguridad para niρos pequeρos por que uno como padre de familia deja ah sus hijos en la escuela con la confiansa de que estan "SEGUROS" no concuerdo con lo q' dijo el director de esa escuela , para mi es una NEGLIJENSIA departe del director y de la MISMA ESCUELA.
Si la maestra no fue lo sufisientemente habil para hacerse cargo de sus alumnos que irresponsabilidad!
Aparte siempre tienen q' tener seguridad en los baρos porq' ah esa corta edad los niρos necesitan ayuda para sus necesidades!
Espero se tomen cartas en el asunto y no quede INMUNE esto, porque esta vez encontraron al niρo asalvo , q' tal si hubiera pasado una tragedia?
No esperen a q' suceda algo para actuar!
Y para el director pues no cosidero las respuestas q' esta dando como algo "PROFESIONAL". No me gustaria q' siguiera de Director!
Vanessa Mascareno
"
trickbean wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:41 PM:
" IMHO, this just shows that most parents aren't taking the time to teach their kids common sense. Decent parents would have taught or discussed with their child things like...do not cross the street without an adult...do not go anywhere by yourself...and "Stranger! Danger!!" It seems to me this is a defiant little one--I can smell them a mile away. LOL! "
DuneBug wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:33 PM:
" 1234red....What you need to do is THANK the guy that took your kid back to school, safe and sound...There are many parents out there that aren't as lucky as you were, some people never get to see their loved ones ever again because of child abduction, Lady!!! And May God Bless You....... "
jando760 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:09 PM:
" Unas buenas nalgadas a ese chamaco y ya!!!! "
jfsnsclprnt wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:58 PM:
" This situation seems to be merely the latest in a series of faux pas committed by Mr. Padilla since his inception as principal at Jefferson. His blatant defiance by not accepting responsibility for this situation is very unsettling. It's unbelievable that he is taking no responsibility for this whatsoever. And to imply that the child's parents are somehow to blame is incredible. Even if it wasn't directly his fault, any good leader would apologize for having something like this happen under his watch. Ultimately, as leader and de facto face of the school, Mr. Padilla is responsible for having correct procedures and policies in place for these situations - as well as being liable for when they fail. Apparently he's more focused on deflecting blame from himself than being concerned for the safety of the child. His already marred reputation as "leader" at Jefferson appears to have hit a new level. He is irresponsible, unprofessional, inexperienced, and ultimately poses a serious threat to the safety of our children. An effective leader leads by example and has the trust and respect of those he is expected to lead, none of which Mr. Padilla appears to possess. "
soulman wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:55 PM:
" mail, not only do i have kids, three. but my oldest son is a 2nd grade student at Jefferson Elementary School, the school where this incident took place. I TAUGHT MY SON NOT TO TALK TO STRANGERS, NOT TO ACCEPT RIDES FROM STRANGERS, TO ALWAYS LISTEN TO HIS TEACHER AND NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE LEAVE SCHOOL.
The principal was wrong for his callous attitude toward the situation. He should have handled the matter with more urgency.
Maybe your kids don't listen to you, but mine do.
All i'm saying is that the parents need to share the blame here. My child does what I tell him to do. He's a good kid, and he would NEVER leave school by himself. "
Medinac wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:54 PM:
" SonOfABeach like someone else wrote, the district trains teachers to do many more things other that teaching inside a classroom. They are given many tools to over see the many needs of these children while IN THEIR CUSTODY. From what I know a parent needs authorization to even take the child out of a classroom early, which means that while the student is in class they (the school administration)have full custody and responsibility for the well being of all the children there. "
Medinac wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:47 PM:
" THANK GOD ALFONCITO IS BACK HOME. there was no reason to believe the student was in harm or he had been kidnapped. Does this Padilla guy not realize that he is in a border city! How can you not know how many children get kidnapped in seconds from their front yards and taken to other countries to be sold in one piece, many times in more than one? I was a Jefferson student from kinder to sixth, and I can tell you that Mr. Pacheco, principal at that time, would have dropped what ever he was doing and gone out to LEAD the search. To those of you who are pointing fingers at the parents my prayers to you, and will ask God to brighten your minds a little more. "
SonOfABeach wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:44 PM:
" 1234red - time for YOU to look in the mirror and ask what YOU did wrong also as a parent. OUR responsibilities do NOT end when we send them out the door in the morning or when they sit down at their desks at school. The school is not innocent here - but you're starting to sound like you're fishing for a lawsuit...
If the shoe fits...
And my meds are fine- thank YOU very much. "
Medinac wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:28 PM:
" THANK GOD ALFONCITO IS BACK HOME. Does this Padilla guy not realize that he is in a border city! How can you not know how many children get kidnapped in seconds from their front yards and taken to other countries to be sold in one piece, many times in more than one? I was a Jefferson student from kinder to sixth, and right now I can tell you that Mr. Pacheco, principal at that time, would have dropped what ever he was doing and gone out to LEAD the search. To those of you who are pointing fingers at the parents I will pray for you and ask God to brighten your thoughts about what you have wrote. "
bigern wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:18 PM:
" Don't pay attention to none of these bone heads because you kno it would be a differnt story if there child was the one that the school lost track of they would be cryin for justice. "
cheripies wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:15 PM:
" What the principal did was wrong,i don't blame the parents for being upset.A missing child is very serious business. "
1234red wrote on Jan 31, 2008 5:50 PM:
" TO son of a Beach, What kind of Meds are you on? Your mind is messed up? What more meets the eye... your crazy... And yes I do expect the Principal to be superman? After all he is the head of the school who is responsible for the well being of the children! And Just so You know I am involved in PTA meetings... God Bless you! "
1234red wrote on Jan 31, 2008 5:44 PM:
" NOW! Holababy! I DO NOT BELIEVE IN HITTING MY CHILD!!! And yes! I do think that the school should know where students are at every five minutes, especially during school hours. What kind of ignorant person are you? My son left the school during school hours, not after school. Learn how to read and write before you insult anyone. OK! GOD BLESS! "
1234red wrote on Jan 31, 2008 5:37 PM:
" This is Angelina Garcia the mother of Alfonso Martinez Jr. I would like to thank those who have shown their support throughout this ordeal, and for those who have questioned my parenting skills may GOD BLESS YOU!!!:) "
Justina wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:57 PM:
" I understand Mr. Martinez resentment towards Mr. Padilla. But I beleive the principal can not be looking at every single kid on campus. Thats why he has staff that is responible for this not to happen. I hope that there will be some regrouping. After all this has occured, I beleive Mr. Martinez should have sat down with the principal to address his concern, instead of acting like a child himself. I have 4 children of my own I would be upset but a reasonable person at the same time. "
soon to be wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:50 PM:
" This is not the first time Padilla does nothing for a childs safety, my son has been harass by noon duties in more then two occasions and nothing has been done he would leave things for the following day, we would have to talk to the assistant principle, which would say Ill let Padilla know! Jefferson School has no priority for the kids!! My husband would have to leave work sit in the office to be heard by Padilla, and still nothing was done, I would say they would remove the noon duty from that campus, but NO all they said was to stay away from my son! Padilla has no business being a principle if the children are not his priority!!
Thank god, Alfonso is back in his parents arms!!!!
"
vllyrat wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:30 PM:
" This is very scary.. I feel for the parents. When you find out your child is missing even for one minuet you feel so desperate, anxious-helpless..only a parent can describe that feeling. Thank God this child was found safe. "
communityview wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:12 PM:
" Hope someone can e-mail "Mr.Not Serious Enough" all these comments, so can stop and think (if he can think that is) for a second! "
mail wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:12 PM:
" not yet but it sure sounds like a good idea that the parents of jefferson elementary hear about this!!! "
initialu wrote on Jan 31, 2008 4:06 PM:
" Was this reported in the television news? "
mail wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:51 PM:
" viking92120 i couldn't agree with you more...!!!
The responsiblity falls on Jefferson Elementary. My child attends this school and this is very scary because his also in kinder and when you hear this story!!! you can't be more mad that no one seems to care about the safety of our children. He probably does not consider the Calexico Police Department to be good enough but THEY ARE!!! He should have called 911!!!!and thats the bottom line!!!He doesn't admit that they did wrong in not calling 911!!!and thats whats scary in all this. what the hell is going on in his head!!!What would be a good reason for him or his staff to call 911???? I don't know but count on it that I will ask him that question!!!!! "
mail wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:35 PM:
" holababy...yeah!!!it really seems like you are a baby..i can't understand how you think or even image you have children...i really hope you don't have children at all...for the sake of them...and if i could i would smack your head is if we can give you a little bit of common sense. "
viking92120 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:35 PM:
" holababy--Yes, it is ridiculous to expect teachers/administrators to know the whereabouts of every child every minute of the day. The principal is not at fault there. The issue is that HE DID NOTHING once he realized the child was missing!
I sure hope you do not procreate, as it is evident that you lack the intelligence to parent a child correctly. "
viking92120 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:28 PM:
" Wow, I can't believe the situation was not "deemed serious enough"! The possibilities are endless as to what could have happened to that child -- struck by a car, fallen into a canal, kidnapped into Mexico, the list goes on and on! Of course it was serious enough! The cops are there to help in situations like these. Lets put our taxpayer dollars to work and utilize the police!
And to those blaming the child, remember, he is 5 years old. His little brain is not wired like an adult's is. Many adults accept rides from strangers in time of need (think flat tire or out of gas) just like this child did. Besides, haven't you ever heard of adults getting kidnapped? It could happen to anyone!
This principal ought to be ashamed of himself and removed from his position. "
holababy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:15 PM:
" i cant beleive all the crap you people have posted on this board.
ist day of school ? teachers suppose to know where every student is ?
the school is responcable for the safter of the students when they leave the campus ?
the parrents are wrong here---and they should admit it.
"
holababy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:05 PM:
" the kid needs his butt spanked till he understands that he needs to listen to the teachers and never leave the school. "
holababy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 3:02 PM:
" please.............again a story about kids.
andddddd the unrealistic expectations of parents and the public.
you cant expect schools or their adminstrators to know where you kids are at -----every 5 minutes.
thats stupid--- "
wikiscogg wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:57 PM:
" What is wrong with this Principal? He needs to be fired from his job. This is a serious situation and thank God the little boy was found and also thank God the person that picked him up was not some sexual pervert. "
miramontes2 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:45 PM:
" As part of this family we do thank God for this good samaritan, and we also understand that perhaps we need to educate our son more. But, the problem here is that Mr. Padilla did nothing during the incident, continues to do nothing, and the District has allowed this to happen. When Mr. Padilla was questioned about his safety plan, yes he had a nice plan in place. But, his staff knew nothing about it. So how does that make our children safer. So it's not about putting blame on someone. It's about our children feeling safe. "
mail wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:34 PM:
" this is for soulman..his a five year old child ..and your right thank god the person that found him was not a prev!!!thats way the responsiblity of mr. padilla was to call the police asap!!!not sent his staff to look for him!!!it also sounds like you don't have kids because if you were a parent you would know that you can tell your child not to do something and you turn around and they still do it...soulman you need to read the article!!! "
SonOfABeach wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:30 PM:
" There are a lot of ways to point the accusational finger. But the boy was seen taking medicine "throughout the break"? What kind of medicine - save for an inhaler - is taken "throughout the break"?? And arent ALL medicines supposed to be administered in/by the office - by law??? There is more here than meets the eye. The parents are to blame as well for not instilling rules in their son's head about leaving school. Come on - I have had 3 kids go thru school and they didn't beging cutting class until High School! And all you nay-sayers - do you KNOW for a fact that the meeting the Principal was in wasn't important? Is the Principal a "Superman" and could cover square blocks in seconds? Thats why there is a staff, and procedures in place. Maybe his actions afterward - being aloof, appearing uncaring, can be called into question. But I know this kind of parents...first to scream when their child is looked at cross-eyed. Own up - instill some common sense in your kid - no matter HOW young. I support the Principal in this case. Are the parents involved with school? PTA? I bet not. "
mxortega wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:21 PM:
" When I read this article this morning, I got goosebumps! I have two young child, one who is going to enter Kinder in August and it scares me to death to think that a 5-year-old child can just walk off campus and not be noticed!!! My question is: why didn't anybody in the front office or anywhere in the school notice a little kid walking out of school?!This Padilla fellow sounds like he has no business being a school administrator, "Not serious enough!" Give me a break! Ask any parent who has ever lost a child and see if when their child went missing if it was serious enough to act on it. Padilla has no common sense and Alfonso's parents should fight Alvarez and the school board to do something about this. Hey, they should call CNN or "Good Morning America" to get the story some national attention. Let's see if Padilla thinks it is serious enough then!!!! "
soulman wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:12 PM:
" communityview, i agree with you. the principal should have approached this incident with much more urgency. The parents should be grateful that this incident didn't lead to something far worse. I bet NOW they'll teach their son about leaving school alone, or getting into a car with strangers. "
thealsipian wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:50 PM:
" Had this had happenened at some school in the midwest this type of "not serious enough" situation (according to the principal)would have been hitting roof tops in national news bombarding this "principal" with all kinds of titles like: inept, irresponsible, stupid etc.- Maybe the parents should contact some national network and report this crappy principal and his "aloof" attitude. This type of people should not and must not be in a position of responsibility when it comes to children's welfare. No matter if the child was hiding inside a box, bathroom etc, his responsibility was to get his behind moving to locate the child. That is his job, the welfare of the children under his care - not to be looking "very important principal in a meeting to worry about a missing child."
"
communityview wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:44 PM:
" Soulman the point that we're trying to address here is not wether this child was thought right from wrong, but the fact that this irresponsable principal stated that this situation was not serious enough to contact the authorities or even serious enough for him to take action, excuse himself from the meeting and put every effort into locating this child! I bet if he got a call during that same meeting telling him that his child was missing his whole world would have stopped cold, and I guarantee you he would've been out of that meeting like a bat out of hell!! And I hope he reads all these comments so that he can stop and think for a minute. Maybe we should teach this principal what's right from wrong!!! I hope the school district takes disiplinary action againts this principal! "
DuneBug wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:42 PM:
" Honestly the one that should have been THANKED out of all this was the guy that brought the lost kid back to school grounds! He should be thanked by the school district and the parents! With picture in the paper and the whole nine yards! This guy was a good a samaritan and he should be given a special thanks! With so many sexual predators around - they just caught a man with his pants down a few weeks ago hanging around a school in Calexico - This kid had a special Angel that day! "
smallville77 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:39 PM:
" This principal has children I know this and it disturbs me to know that he cared nothing for this child to pull himself away from a useless meeting because from the moment that boy went missing, whatever he was doing in that meeting was deemed useless. His TOP priority should be students and I know for a fact that it isn't because friends of mine have children who attend that school. Everything described of him in this article was eerily accurate. This Principal obviously passed his academics to gain him the job as this administrator but he also proves that academics aren't always EVERYTHING when COMMON Sense is absent. I am thankful to God that this child was found safe and unharmed and I pray that a new more suitable replacement can be found for this principal who has displayed to us all, that he is NOT FIT to be where he is. "
drag38 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:21 PM:
" IF MRS PADILLA WOULD OF TAKEN THIS INCIDENT MORE SERIOUS HE WOULD OF EXCUSE HIMSELF FROM THE MEETING HE WAS IN SO HE CAN HELP SEARCH FOR THE MISSING OF ANYBODYS CHILD PERIOD. "
dbrett480 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:17 PM:
" I think if little Ashley Madison had gone missing instead of Alfonso Martinez the school's reaction would be quite different. Instead of four school employees, the entire Calexico Police Department and Imperial County Sheriff would be out searching with dogs and helicopters. "
Prov3 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 12:47 PM:
" Well stated, "ricocafe". "
mitsecl wrote on Jan 31, 2008 12:40 PM:
" Mr. Lopez I resent your comment. How can not caring for children equate to being a molester? "
joselopez wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:32 AM:
" Any schhool employee that has no passion for children falls in the same category as child molesters.....they should not be allowed to associate with young children. "
robles wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:23 AM:
" to ricocafe99. what the hec you said I said,,blame the kid,blame Padilla. My kids live in perfect world....man hog wash!!!!
has any one thank the lord this child is safe.thanks to the young man. RAFA "
soulman wrote on Jan 31, 2008 11:06 AM:
" There's enough blame to go around, the parents for not teaching their son to NEVER leave school alone or get in a car with a stranger, and the principal for his callous attitude.
Good thing is now their is a plan in place should this happen again. "
edjhn wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:45 AM:
" This is a very serious situation, the principal is wrong in saying that "the case was not that serious". Had it been his child I bet this would have been a very serious case. Being that Calexico is a border town and the possibility of that child being abducted and taken across the border in a matter of 15 minutes and never being seen again is VERY SERIOUS! The school district needs to take some disciplinary action against this negligent principal. "
gymjunkie wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:33 AM:
" I know one thing after my bottom quit hurting from the paddling I got for leaving the school I would not have repeated it. All is well, let's hope the principal got a good paddling also so this won't happen again. Lessons learned. "
soulman wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:24 AM:
" gymjunkie, i'm blaming his parents for not teaching their 5yr old son that he should never leave school under any circumstances. My son knew that, he also knew not to get into a car with strangers, or speak to a stranger. How did he learn that? His parents taught him that.
this kid apparently knew neither, since he also got into a car with a stranger. thank goodness the stranger turned out to be someone who was good and decent. what if it would have been a perv? "
karlag wrote on Jan 31, 2008 10:10 AM:
" If according to Padilla the safety of the children is first why didn't he steped out of the meeting called the police and put the safety of the child first? Is this the kind of principal we want for our children? A principal who does not belive a student is in harm when the student has been missing for 30 mins? If harm would of happend to the child how would the principal explain to parents hu? "
bob_bear wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:57 AM:
" This is pretty scary. But you can't blame the child and you can't blame the parents. Children go to school because that's the law. So we parents rely on school employees to care for the safety of our children. This had a happy ending with a kind person that took the child back to school. But it could have gone very bad. Padilla seems to think the ends justifies the means. I don't think so. His comments are very flippant and callous. I don't expect Padilla to run out and look for the child himself, but he should have taken a more active role in this. Will this happen again? Who knows...Will Padilla react the same way in case it does? Probably, if this his behavior is not addressed and corrected... "
initialu wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:54 AM:
" what!! who is this guy? How dare you not think it was not important not to call the police! there are predators out there, and being a principal, the meeting could have been reschedule and make finding this child a first priority! How would you know if he was harmed or not.(You say safety first priority!) He was picked up by a stranger a good samaritan Thank God, That should not have happened. It's time for a Responsible Principal. From a outraged Parent! "
ricocafe99 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:23 AM:
" As a parent I would be angry with all involved including my child who if were my child would never do that because I have trained them to follow the rules. the good that can come of this is that the Principal will hopefully never underestimate a potential crisis again, that the teachers will be reminded of their responsibilties, the children will have school rules re-emphasized as well as parents sitting down and having a meaningful discussion on following school rules and basic right from wrong with their children. "
araguas wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:10 AM:
" Are you kidding me!?! There are child molesters everywhere! What an easy target to see a 5 year old boy roaming the streest alone. According to megans law website there are at least 5 in Calexico!
www.meganslaw.ca.gov "
gymjunkie wrote on Jan 31, 2008 9:07 AM:
" Soulman - your post almost sounds like you are blaming a 5 yr old for coming up missing. Regardless of the reason he left he is too young to realize he did wrong. I suppose you would blame him for getting into the car with a complete stranger also and then blame the parents if something awful had happened to him. "
karlairene wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:55 AM:
" This happened to me many years ago when I was in Kindergarten as well. I guess things haven't changed much since then because when I went missing the police weren't called either. Thank God my mom got off work early that day & saw me walking to my grandma's house. I don't agree with Mr. Padilla's remarks either, because what made him so sure the child wasn't in danger? A high school student gave the child a ride but (God forbid) what if it would've been a sexual predator. That's scary and as a principal Mr. Padilla should take greater interest in all children he oversees. "
soulman wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:51 AM:
" My boy goes to Jefferson, so I know Mr. Padilla, he does seem a little aloof. But honestly, what kind of 5 year old takes off from school? I don't buy that "he wanted to get his medicine" excuse. I know when my boy was in kinder at Jefferson 2 years ago he would have never thought of walking home during the middle of school. I think the parents need to take a little responsibility as well. "
communityview wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:37 AM:
" -"The police were not called because the incident was not deemed serious enough" NOT SERIOUS ENOUGH FOR CRYING OUT LOUD A KID WAS MISSING!! And how can you say there was no reason to believe this child was in harms way, you didn't even know where he was. Come on he was picked up by a stranger who could've very well been a predator. But thank God this guy was a good samaritan.AND SHAME ON THIS PRINCIPAL, SEND HIM TO THE UNEMPLOYMENT DPT!!
"
brendashffld wrote on Jan 31, 2008 8:00 AM:
" Not sure I agree with this locking the gates thing. My concern would be if some crazy showed up or whatever and kids needed to get off campus with teachers. Would there be time to unlock gates to let kids out? I personally would be furious for a kindergartener to go to the restroom alone anyway. Anyone who is a parent knows it takes 2 seconds for their mind to switch to something else. Very sad. "
cinoreah wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:53 AM:
" ~We tried to make a reasonable decision and there was no reason to believe the student was in harm or he had been kidnapped, Padilla said.~ WTH was this stupid principal thinking??? This young "Good Samaritan" could very well have been a predator and we could be hearing about a tragic situation. Padilla and those who failed to follow school policy by not contacting the police should be fired IMMEDIATELY!!!! People of Calexico, band together and run this guy out of town...at the very least get him away from your schools. Slapping a lawsuit against the school just might encourage them to follow their own policies. The handling of this situation is nothing short of pathetic.
"
arrowhead wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:19 AM:
" Padilla sounds like he has a stubborn streak and an aversion to admitting mistakes. Not good traits for a prinicpal of an elementary school! "
aesco1 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:17 AM:
" I cant believe Mr Padilla, had the nerve to say that he doesn't regret what happened. He should not be in the position that he's in now if he's going to have that kind of attitude. He's lucky this little boy's father didn't sock him one after he made that comment. Gina Sanchez is very well liked and respected in our community, If she's in charge of disipline she and the District should consider some action. And another thing, Mr Padilla, should consider letting someone else do the public comment thing when the need arises. "
sancho77 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 7:00 AM:
" this same incident happened with my child last year at a different school..shut the gates when school starts, the problem is school employees being too lazy to close the gates and lock them or this will happen again! "
chonguis wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:56 AM:
" I can't believe he doesn't regret acting the way he did. that guy needs to be taken out of there now! if my kids went missing i would want the cops there right away. "there was no reason to believe the student was in harm or he had been kidnapped" how can he say that if they didnt know where he was at. padilla stayed in his meeting as well. this guy really doesn't care. kudos to the guy who brought the student back. "
jns101879 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 6:29 AM:
" "We didn't believe he was in harm", even though some random person picked him up and returned him to the school. Thank God that the random person wasn't someone looking to do harm to the kid. "
vero14z wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:57 AM:
" My two boys are 9 and 10 years old. I would go crazy if I found out they went missing now, let alone when they were as young as this boy. The school did have staff looking for the child but they should have called the cops the moment they realized he went missing. If the kid had been found by the time cops got there, then you say thank you for coming officer but we found him. We as parents need to remind our kids to NEVER step foot outside their school during class time. "
newsguy wrote on Jan 31, 2008 2:47 AM:
" I remember I sneaked out of class in the first grade and I didn't come back. "
Joel Osuna 32 wrote on Jan 31, 2008 1:59 AM:
" this is ridiculouis. Padilla should be removed from overseeing these children. "
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xoxo wrote on Feb 7, 2008 4:14 PM:
mr. paddilla sent a letter with every children from jefferson admitting his mistake and apologizing to everyone and even the family who this happened to...he also had a meeting yesterday regarding this...so i think since he alreay admitted to his mistake and said im sorry...and knows he did wrong lets drop it.....i will cuz in his letter and in the meeting, i am as a parent satisfied with what he said and his safety percautions now. i think if something like this ever happens again things will be handled differently. "