RICHMOND, Va. — Laptops in Henrico County middle schools are up for contract renewal next year, and the county is soliciting input.
The current four-year contract, which ends June 30, supplies an Apple laptop computer for every middle school student. Considerations in the renewal process will include whether to stick with Apple models, switch to Windows-based computers and/or go to smaller netbooks.
Two comment sessions are scheduled for next week. Earlier meetings brought out 103 parents, whose comments were summarized yesterday at a meeting and work session of the Henrico School Board.
Parents so far have said they like for their children to have access to a computer at all times, that it has enhanced parent-school communication and that it helps save paper and be environmentally friendly, according to the summary.
When asked about improvements, they suggested better battery life, a lease-to-own program and greater accountability for laptop misuse.
Funding is a concern for parents and the School Board. Parents suggested more aid for families who can't afford laptop fees and who don't have Internet access at home. Parents must pay a $50 iBook insurance fee.
The board also expects to face a leaner budget next year because of the recession.
Laptop specifications will be more thoroughly discussed at the board's December and January meetings before a request for proposals goes out in February. The current middle school laptop program costs more than $2 million a year.
In other business, the board awarded contracts on six-classroom additions to Lakeside and Tuckahoe elementary schools. Moseley Architects will get $239,610 for design work at Lakeside. Worley Associates Architects will get $268,560 for Tuckahoe.
Contact Katherine Calos at (804) 649-6433 or kcalos@timesdispatch.com.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement