Gotta have it.

There's been a lot of talk about needs vs. wants in regard to our schools.  With that in mind, I think it's important to talk about technology. Some people think that those who want better technology are asking for too much. But technology isn't a want. It is a necessity. (I'm talking to you, reading this on your computer, smartphone or tablet. And if you're reading this on an old one, you know how quickly technology changes.) We need to move forward. 

When Dr. Hayes first presented the budget, he remarked that the principals' original request was too high to put in the operating budget and instead split it up, putting part of the request into a separate warrant article. As the process continued, the School Board sought additional input and the decision was made to eliminate that article-so you won't see it on the ballot in March. 

We need to consider what the implications will be for our schools next year. Truthfully, I'm kicking myself for not asking this question at the public hearing. Does it mean another year without moving forward? Can we afford that?

I know that some people hear "30 iPads for our High School" and think that the School Board is asking for the moon. But do we want to let our kids fall further behind? An article in the Exeter Newsletter last week spoke about a request in Stratham for 90 iPads and 100 Chromebooks--for their elementary school. That's one example of what other communities are doing. And before people start yelling at me saying that "we're not Stratham" - that's why we're talking about implementing a 1:1 program at the High School.

We need to start the process and can't delay another year. Things aren't going to get easier with time and nothing is going to get less expensive. We need to start the process now and approve any funds requested by the school board for technology by approving the operating budget.

The 21st century is here. Let's equip our kids to compete in it. 

Why can't we just have a bake sale?

I've attended 2 budget committee meetings this week and I have a few thoughts to share:

• Someone needs to explain the preschool program at the Elementary School to Russ Simon. And not just the preschool program at the school, but preschool in general. It's been a long time since some of the Budget Committee members have had kids in Pre-K, and my guess is that maybe things have changed a little. I really wanted to raise my hand and explain how it works. For the record, we've attended both a private Pre-K and utilized the Pre-K at the elementary school due to my son having an IEP, so I think I have a pretty well-rounded perspective. Just the hint that the Pre-K at the elementary school might need to be "looked at" because revenue is down, shows that the Budget Committee members don't understand the program. 

• It's no secret that the majority of the budget is salaries - 81% according to Dr. Hayes. Last night Roseanne Kwaks complained that "the kids are only getting 20 cents on the dollar." Does she not realize that teachers teach kids?

• There's been a lot of talk about needs vs. wants. A little at the Budget Committee meeting, but also quite a lot on Facebook. Is only meeting the minimum standards where we want to be? What does this say about our priorities? Hiding behind fiscal responsibility and suggesting that anything above the bare minimum is the Taj Mahal is a disgrace. I expect more from our elected officials. 

• Dr. Hayes needs to do a better job explaining his plans for technology in our schools. I don't know what back-up data the Budget Committee has or doesn't have, but it was clear that they didn't understand the request for the iPads and how it fits into the bigger picture for the district. Not to mention, as a parent I think that it's exciting to hear about those plans for the schools and it makes me feel like we're headed in the right direction.

The Budget Committee will meet again on January 7th and 8th. At those meetings, the Budget Committee will ask any further questions of both the Town and the School and also discuss the proposed warrant articles. There will be time for public input at a hearing scheduled for January 14th. 

Mark your calendars.

Wishful thinking.

At last night's Town Council meeting, a resolution was voted on authorizing the purchase of 8 new computers and a new server for the town.

To be clear, I completely agree with the council that 6 year old computers, described as "absolute clunkers" are basically obsolete and that was the general consensus last night when they voted to support this resolution.

The technology in our schools has come up in conversation a lot lately and it's my understanding that we are using computers that are 8 years old in some departments.

Personally, I will look forward to the discussion about technology during this year's budgeting process. My hope is that it goes as smoothly as it did last night.