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Health & Fitness

Tech Bond Informational Meeting Tomorrow

On Tuesday, January 14 at 7:00 in Grosse Pointe South’s Wicking Library, the League of Women Voters, Grosse Pointe will provide all residents of the Grosse Pointe Public School System an opportunity to directly ask administrators and teachers questions regarding the proposed technology bond to be voted on this February 25.

The plan will provide much needed upgrades in infrastructure and security systems, but most importantly, this proposal will provide teachers with the tools needed to individualize instruction, improve student performance, and prepare Grosse Pointe children for a 21st century world outside of the classroom.  Currently, valuable class time is wasted working with obsolete equipment, student performance on state-mandated testing has suffered due to outdated equipment, and many graduates have shared that they were not prepared with the technology expertise expected at the college level.

Furthermore, since 2008 Lansing has cut K-12 funding in a way that has equaled a loss of $6.5 million in funding to the Grosse Pointe Public School System.  Teachers have recently agreed to an 8% decrease in their pay and a 20% increase in their benefit contributions.  Over the years, this district has made the tough choice to maintain programs and keep class sizes small.  This was a wise decision, but as a result, technology improvements took a back seat.  Now, as communities like St. Clair Shores, Fraser, and Troy begin to surpass Grosse Pointe with regards to technology, the administration has decided to tackle the issue in a way that does not further cut an already bare bones budget. 

Recognizing that many in the community have concerns about the bond, the League of Women Voters has invited all residents of the community to ask their questions directly of the people making the proposal.  Superintendent, Dr. Tom Harwood, Assistant Superintendent, Chris Fenton, and Michigan Teacher of the Year, Gary Abud will all be on hand to address the public’s concerns and explain in detail how the bond will help students and the community.

This is an issue that will have a direct impact on the quality of education our district provides its students.  The Grosse Pointe community is highly regarded for the stellar services and quality of life it offers its residents.  This important proposal will preserve Grosse Pointe’s legacy of being one of the best places in Michigan to live and raise a family.  

GP Tech Yes would like to encourage all residents to attend this meeting and ask the tough questions.  The strength of our community depends on it.

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