Letter to the Editor: Vote For Tech Bond to Improve Northville Public Schools

- The following Letter to the Editor was submitted by Courtney Lauer

As a former elementary school teacher and parent, I am surprised by the lack of available technology in Northville Public Schools’ classrooms. My husband and I moved to the area due to the outstanding reputation of Northville schools and felt that our two daughters would benefit most by going to progressive and up-to-date schools.

My current profession as an Education Technology Specialist provides me the opportunity to visit schools all over the Great Lakes region and I am dismayed by Northville’s lack of competitiveness regarding the latest classroom technology. I know that this will severely hinder the children in our community and put them at a competitive disadvantage if this situation does not change…and in the very near future.

As parents, educators and citizens, we need to prepare our students for today’s world and provide them with the tools needed to build a successful future. Good schools and a comprehensive education are the foundation for a strong community and most importantly, our children’s and our future. Advanced educational technology is an avenue that can provide not only state-of-the-art
educational initiatives, but also lead to vast improvements in test scores, direct cost savings, and keep us competitive with the rapidly advancing educational standings of other nearby communities, states and countries.

The Community of Northville has an opportunity to make a real difference in our children’s education by voting YES on the Nov. 6 ballot for the Northville Public Schools Technology Bond. I urge everyone to vote YES on this initiative.

If you have doubts, please educate yourself by visiting www.voteyesnps.org. The fact is, by voting YES to maintain the current millage rate of 4.3 mills, the bond will generate $20.87 million for technology improvements and the replacement of some buses in the district’s aging fleet. Your YES vote on the Technology Bond will provide much-needed technology upgrades across the district that will enhance learning for all students, while also protecting the district’s limited General Fund dollars needed to fund regular operational expenses. This is a great deal for all the citizens of Northville. Please vote YES on Nov. 6. Our kids will thank you someday down the road for being so proactive and supportive.

Interested in submitting a Letter to the Editor? Email it to nancy.kelsey@patch.com.