Osseo Area Schools — Transcript

Sunday, August 25, 2024

Story

Brooklyn Park to vote on school technology levy renewal in November

Votes (1)

Discussion on Technology Levy Renewal

No action taken at this meeting; a community vote on the levy renewal is scheduled for November 5th.

Speakers underscored the essential role of technology in modern education, likening it to fundamental tools like notebooks and pencils. The impending expiration of the 2014 technology levy prompted a proposal for a new 10-year levy, crucial for maintaining advanced learning tools and enhancing school safety through secure entrances, cameras, and radios. It was explicitly stated that the tax rate would remain unchanged. The financial implications of non-approval, including a $6.6 million funding deficit, were highlighted. Evidence of strong community support for educational technology, derived from a recent survey, was also presented, alongside the benefits for teacher efficiency and overall student success.

Notable Quotes (5)

the tax rate will not change.

Administrator/Presenter [0:45]
Discussion on Technology Levy Renewal

our cameras, our radios, and other technologies that will help ensure that we've got the tools to keep our students and staff as safe as possible.

Administrator/Presenter [1:32]
Discussion on Technology Levy Renewal

I'm able to meet the needs of individual learners better than ever because of technology.

Teacher [1:57]
Discussion on Technology Levy Renewal

it means $6.6 million that currently we are using to help fund technology won't be available.

Administrator/Presenter [2:06]
Discussion on Technology Levy Renewal

70% of those said that technology is really important for learning.

Administrator/Presenter [2:24]
Discussion on Technology Levy Renewal

Ordinances & Resolutions (3)

current technology levyOther

Approved in 2014, used to ensure students had learning technologies, and is set to expire at the end of the current school year.

additional 10-year levyOther

Proposed renewal levy to continue supporting students with learning technologies and a safe/secure learning environment. The tax rate will not change.

capital projects levyOther

Funds from this levy were subject to a survey last year, where 70% of respondents identified technology as important for learning.

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Osseo Area Schools - Brooklyn Park Recorder