Duluth Public School Board Approves Technology Referendum for May Election
The Duluth Public School Board has unanimously approved the inclusion of a $5.2 million technology referendum on the ballot for the upcoming May election. The referendum, which failed by a narrow margin in November, aims to address the district’s pressing technology needs and improve security in schools. Superintendent John Magas emphasized the importance of this investment in preparing students for the workforce and ensuring their safety. The proposed investment plan, spread over a 10-year period, includes allocations for learning technology upgrades, cybersecurity, digital curriculum, and infrastructure maintenance.
Urgent Need for Technology Funding Highlights District’s Financial Struggles
The decision to bring the technology referendum to voters comes as the district continues to grapple with financial challenges. The current technology budget of $250,000 has proven insufficient, forcing the district to dip into its general fund to cover expenses. If the referendum fails to pass this time, district leaders warn of potential budget deficits in the future, necessitating cuts to programming and staff. An increase in monthly taxes, approximately $10.87, for homeowners with a property value of $315,000 is anticipated if the referendum is approved.
Investment Breakdown Highlights Focus on Learning and Security
The proposed investment plan for the technology referendum provides a detailed breakdown of how the funds will be allocated. Approximately 24% of the first-year investments will go towards learning technology upgrades, benefiting both classrooms and staff. Another 22% will be dedicated to enhancing cybersecurity measures, including the installation of firewalls, data encryption, security cameras, and 911 services. The allocation for digital curriculum and professional development accounts for 16%, while 15% will cover technology and security maintenance staff. Additionally, 13% will be used for digital infrastructure, and 10% will go towards maintaining and upgrading career and technical education programs.
Technology Integration in Classrooms Enhances Learning Opportunities
Adelle Wellens, the Communications Officer for Duluth Public Schools, highlighted the benefits of technology integration in classrooms. She mentioned instances where teachers brought in virtual guest speakers, such as Mayo Clinic doctors and NASA astronauts, to engage students in unique educational experiences. Wellens emphasized that the technology referendum is not solely about screen time but is intended to equip students with the skills necessary for the future.
Rejection of Prior Referenda Emphasizes the Need for Support
This is not the first time the district has sought approval for a technology referendum. In 2018, the initial attempt was unsuccessful, and the same outcome followed during the general election in 2023. District leaders stress that if the referendum fails again, they will face difficult decisions in balancing the budget, potentially leading to program cuts and staff reductions. The community’s support is crucial to ensure the district’s continued progress in providing quality education.
Important Dates and Downloadable Apps for Local Residents
The special election for the technology referendum will take place on Tuesday, May 14. Northern News Now, the local news source, offers the convenience of downloading their app and staying up-to-date with the latest news and weather alerts. Residents are encouraged to download the Northern News Now app and the Northern News Now First Alert weather app for the most convenient access to information.
Analyst comment
Positive news: Duluth Public School Board Approves Technology Referendum for May Election.
Short analysis: The approval of the technology referendum is a positive development for the market, as it addresses the district’s technology needs and improves security in schools. The proposed investment plan over a 10-year period will allocate funds for learning technology upgrades, cybersecurity, digital curriculum, and infrastructure maintenance. This investment will prepare students for the workforce and ensure their safety.
