During a recent board meeting, members discussed the approval of Budget Amendment Number Five, totaling $380,514, aimed at reallocating funds primarily from the instructional category to enhance classroom technology. The amendment focuses on special education needs, general education assessment software, and technology supplies, with approximately 87% of the funds directed towards special education startup allocations.

Board member Misses Phelps raised concerns regarding the allocation of funds, specifically questioning the absence of Spotsylvania High School in the funding distribution for classroom technology. She highlighted ongoing issues with outdated computer monitors at the school, which have been reported as detrimental to student learning. Phelps inquired whether the board could utilize the Virginia Public School Authority (VPSA) funding to address these monitor issues, noting that previous discussions had approved the purchase of Chromebooks using VPSA funds.

In response, district officials clarified that the VPSA funds for the current year had already been fully allocated to student devices, leaving no remaining funds for monitor replacements. They indicated that while the Perkins grant could potentially be used for purchasing monitors, they had not yet confirmed the condition of the existing equipment. Superintendent Doctor Mitchell assured the board that he would investigate the monitor situation further and explore alternative funding options, including Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) funds.

The discussion underscored the board's commitment to addressing technology needs in schools while navigating budget constraints and ensuring that all students have access to effective learning tools. The board is expected to continue exploring funding avenues to resolve the technology issues at Spotsylvania High School.