Noticed this in the AJC and thought I’d pass it along in case you missed it.

“Cobb school administrators Wednesday unveiled a proposed $797.6 million school building and technology upgrade program for the next five years that voters will be asked to approve in a referendum.

The building program, which emphasizes rehabilitating and refurbishing the district’s schools, would be funded with a penny sales tax if voters agree to a third special-purpose, local-option sales tax this fall.

The plan also calls for equipping every classroom in the district with the latest technological advances in instruction, including interactive white boards and projection systems. It also would update or replace more than 50,000 computers, including teachers’ laptops.”

I would think that most people would agree that it’s time to do a little revamping of our schools.

“Grass on high school athletics fields would be replaced with artificial turf, the proposal states.”

Artificial turf, what’s that about?

“East Side and Mableton elementary schools would be demolished and replaced with new 61-classroom buildings. A Smyrna-area elementary school would be built, and a free-standing ninth grade center would be constructed in west Cobb.”

Well that’s sure to start the questions flying!

“The spending plan calls for:

* $106.7 million for new and replacement facilities

* $15 million for land acquisition

* $204.5 million for additions and modifications

* $223.2 million for maintenance and renovation

* $109.7 million for curriculum, instruction and technology

* $138.3 million for safety and support

Superintendent Fred Sanderson pointed out that more than one-third of the schools in the district are 40 years old or older and in need of renovations, maintenance or replacement. Board member Lindsey Tippins said that the SPLOST III proposal is “a work in progress.” The board will meet at 2:30 p.m. April 24 at a special called meeting to discuss the proposed plan.”

You can see the article in its entirety by clicking here.

[tags]Smyrna Vinings Schools, Cobb County Schools, SPLOST III[/tags]