Local

Bond issue for lacking technology in TPS classrooms could go to a vote in 2013

A recent study by Tulsa Public Schools shows close to 40 percent of teachers and principals believe classroom technology right now is below acceptable levels.

The school board responded by creating a 20-member bond development committee to study the feasibility of a technology-focused bond initiative, possibly in May 2013.

Superintendent Dr. Keith Ballard says, "I have long suspected that there are growing disparities in the availability of technology resources at TPS when compared with neighboring school districts. Our students will pay a heavy price if we don't do something to catch up.”

Voters approved a $354 million bond package for the school district in 2010.

A lot of that money was spent on building renovations and repairs to heating and air conditioning.

The district has spent about half of the money.

Bob LaBass, Director of Bond Projects and Energy Management, says, “School districts are limited to spending dollars only in the categories in which they were voted on and approved.”

A dollar amount for a possible bond in 2013 hasn’t been calculated.

The final recommendation by the bond development committee is expected sometime in February.

A complete copy of the survey results may be found on the TPS website at http://www.tulsaschools.org/2_News/_documents/pdf/TechSurvey_OverallResults_130116.pdf.

Listen

news

weather

traffic

mobile apps

Everything you love about krmg.com and more! Tap on any of the buttons below to download our app.

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!