2. Where will we spend the money?
Most of the work now slated to happen under the referendum is aimed at VHS. Its heating system is sputtering and needs to be replaced before it fails entirely–kids can’t go to school in the winter if there’s no heat. The referendum plan also calls for a back-up generator, something that many Verona homeowners have installed in the wake of Hurricane Sandy.
The fill that Verona chose to expand the upper football football field and tennis courts in the late 1970s has settled so badly that sinkholes developed in the football field, forcing it to close last year. The tennis courts have substantial cracks. Indoors, the bleachers in both VHS gyms need substantial repair, and need to be made accessible for people with disabilities. The VHS cafeteria kitchen will get a makeover, as will the cafeteria at H.B. Whitehorne Middle School.
VHS is also the only building that will get a physical expansion as part of this referendum. The plan calls for an addition to the music room with movable walls so that music classes and rehearsal space can be accommodated. Music is the largest single activity at VHS, and a key program throughout Verona.
Question 3: Didn’t we just have a referendum?
And teachers are working without a contract for two years.
Why should our tax dollars go to pay for unfunded but mandated testing? The PARCC is just a corporate money grab. It is obscene that parents have to fund unnecessary testing that takes precious time away from actual learning. Is there a specific amount of money dedicated to the implementation of PARCC, and if so, what is this amount? Parents need to be aware of the impact of data mining associated with the PARCC. Is there any way we can start a group opt out movement? Testing will show what we already know about our superior students and terrific teachers. Think of what we could do with the money that is going to be wasted on corporate testing.
Besides the obvious school properties what else does the Board of Education own in Verona??? I can’t seem to find that answer anywhere.I think its worth knowing when considering any plans to go forward.
The district used to own one of the houses on Gould Street opposite HBW, and the superintendent’s office was there. But that was sold many years ago.
At the last BOE meeting in October, the dollar amount was announced as $17 million by John Quattrocchi for the referendum. Makes me wonder how much will it really be up to by the time we have the final plan.
For the amount of money spent on the last referendum and the current proposal, a new school could have built. Consolidating 2 or more schools, making in “green” to cut costs in heating, cooling and upkeep.