Laptops for High Schoolers and School Equity

I applaud the decision to give our high school students laptops. This decision by the School Committee has finally brought to the high schools what Portland's middle school students have had for years. Also, the decision was made in a fiscally responsible way by buying more affordable Dell computers (I like Macs, but they aren't cheap). While this is all good news, we need to look beyond the issue of laptops to a larger developing situation throughout the school system: School Inequity.

The Portland School System has experienced years of declining enrollment and demographic shifts that have led to overcrowded schools in some neighborhoods and underutilized schools in others. Meanwhile there are technological and program changes that have not reached every school. This creates a school system that is in need of realignment and forward thinking policies to create an equitable system. The good news is that the trend of falling enrollment rates seems to be leveling. However, we have to deal with the inequity that our recent history has created.

A process of strategic planning is the solution, with the ultimate goal of bringing all schools to near-capacity operations with facilities that are capable of handling 21st Century Education. A school that operates near-capacity is cost-effective and educationally efficient. This will maximize educational returns while improving working conditions for students, teachers and staff.

What does it mean to have schools that are prepared for a 21st Century Education? It means small group space, teacher work space, and well-equipped science rooms. If we bring the schools that are lacking these things in-line with those that were designed or upgraded to meet the demands of 21st Century Education, then we will have a more equitable school system.

The School Committee should consider this a process and proceed thoughtfully with an eye towards fiscal responsibility. The Committee must ensure also that Portland families are involved. Every decision should be made with the thought of maximizing the funds used in the most efficient and effective way. Ultimately, school equity is an essential measure to assure that all students are learning for their futures.