The Alternative Press

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ - The Board of Education met Monday night at the Allen W. Roberts School Media Center for its regular work session.

 

The proposed budget for the 2013-2014 was distributed to all board members for the first time. During the budget discussion, board member Ira Krauss pointed out that all programs that benefit the students will continue into next school year, including the district’s technology initiatives. Because New Jersey state aid numbers have not yet come in, there will be a special meeting on March 5, once the amount is known. It will be followed by a public hearing on March 21.

 

In the discussion of the budget, board member Susan Vogel expressed concern over state aid beyond the 2013-2014 school year. Board President John Wolak pointed out that enrollment in the district will continue to increase in the next school year and that the budget has the capacity accommodate additional students.

 

Superintendent Dr. David M. Miceli said he is pleased with the budget and its ability to provide the resources that New Providence students need, including science and technology programs. He also pointed out that the budget has the capacity for additional Special Education needs in the district.

 

Another item on the agenda was the high school’s Personal Learning Initiative, which uses the iPad. There have been ongoing pilots and orientations to prepare for the launch. As of this week, all ninth, tenth and eleventh-grade students have received their iPads. Business Administrator James Testa said upgrades in the high school’s wireless system, content filters, and security monitoring have been put into place for the program.

 

Sandra Searing, director of Curriculum, Instruction and Supervision had an opportunity to observe a class using their new iPads. She said the instruction was seamless, and that the students were confident and very focused on content.

 

During the public comment session, a resident asked if there will be enough teachers to accommodate additional pupils in the future. He was assured that there would be.

 

The next board of education meeting will be Monday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the New Providence High School Media Center. For additional information, visit the school district’s web site, http://www.npsd.k12.nj.us/npsd