Farmington Schools Volunteer: Bond Would Boost Technology

Nearly 40 percent of the first Farmington-Farmington Hills Education Foundation grant awards delivered earlier this year put technology into the hands of Farmington Public Schools teachers and students. 

Foundation director Chris Greig said some of the grants were for small items, but teachers were excited to get the tools to use in their classrooms.

"There was such joy, and there were even some tears," she said. "That's how passionate they are." 

Passage of a $222 million Farmington Public Schools bond on August 6 would allow the nonprofit to focus more on educational programs, Greig said. Officials have proposed spending 19 percent of bond funds on one-to-one computing for all students, interactive whiteboards, video conferencing and other technology enhancements. 

"Right now, teachers are purchasing their own iPads, their own cameras," she said. "PTAs (Parent Teacher Associations) spend a lot of money on technology. Farmington High (PTA) spent $2,300 on digital calculators during the last school year."

The parent of two college students and a Farmington High junior, Greig has been a full-time school volunteer for six years (the Education Foundation position is also a volunteer post). She also has a background in business and technology, having worked for Fortune 500 companies, and believes the bond will help prepare students for the demands of 21st century jobs. 

"I see what's needed," she said. "As fast as things change in the world, we have to keep up with that, for our kids' sake." The world is "diverse, it's digital, it's mobile, and our schools have to reflect the world," she said. 

Contrary to information being distributed by a group that opposes the bond, Greig said, only five percent of the funds would go toward furnishings, and those funds would need to be spent one way or another. She said studies that show the positive effects of upgraded learning environments are posted on the district's website. 

While her kids are older and only one would see some benefit, Greig said she supports the bond as an investment that will pay dividends in "increased property values for this area." She acknowledges this will be a tough decision, given the current financial climate.

"It's difficult, because we're still coming out of a weak economy. It's a personal decision whether the long-term gains outweigh the short-term sacrifice," she said. "For me, they do. We all benefit by making our community better." 

The district and the Foundation will host an information booth at the Downtown Farmington Founders Festival, where voters can learn more about the nonprofit, get their bond questions answered and may be able to see samples of current and proposed furnishings. It won't be a "vote yes" booth, as the district cannot advocate for passage of the bond, Greig said.

While the Foundation board did not have a chance to vote on a formal endorsement of the millage, Greig said, "I'm pretty sure I know how it would have turned out." 

The Farmington-Farmington Hills Education Foundation will host a Toast to Education charity beer and wine tasting event on Oct. 25, to raise funds for the next round of grants. Tickets are $40; for more information, visit ffhedfoundation.org.