Board reviews technology budget for 2013-14

Increased bandwidth improves internet capacity

The technology budget includes general operating expenses, administrative software systems and new initiatives. This year, the new technology initiatives will focus on increasing the capacity of the district's network infrastructure to meet the needs of students' and staffs' devices. Major projects include wireless, network, fiber and bandwidth upgrades. Through the federal E-Rate program, the district will be able to significantly increase its bandwidth from 300MB to 2,000MB for an annual cost of $600.

The total technology budget for 2013-14 is $1,725,934.  This represents an increase of 7 percent from last year. The Board is expected to vote on the proposed budget at their next meeting on April 29.

Glenbrook Academy maintains relevance

Director of the Academy Mr. Matt Whipple presents overview of Academy

While founded in 1981, the Glenbrook Academy of International Studies maintains its relevance in today's global society by connecting course work in social studies, world language and literature to world issues and alternative perspectives.

Much differently than other programs in the District, the Academy combines students from both GBN and GBS who, in eighth grade, are selected as qualified applicants.  They begin their freshmen year and remain in the program throughout all four years of high school.

Academy Director Mr. Matt Whipple addresses Academy students on the first day of class.

"Through The Academy, we have been able to challenge our students in a way that doesn't necessarily focus on their grades. They are encouraged to think globally, respect a diversity of viewpoints, take academic risks and engage in problem solving as a part of the learning process," said Academy Program Director Matt Whipple. "Many of the issues we examine in class are not black-and-white, and it's important

that Academy students understand this type of complexity."

Selection of eighth-grade applicants for placement into The Academy is based on four pieces of criteria: scores earned on the Terra Nova tests in the areas of reading and language; middle or junior high school placement information, including grades earned, study habits ratings, and three teacher recommendations; application form, including personal essay; impromptu writing derived from a brief reading on a current global topic; and personal interview with Academy faculty and students.

Thirty students who best demonstrate the necessary academic and personal qualifications are accepted into the program every year.