The basic format of education has stayed relatively the same for decades. Students come to school, they’re assigned to or sign up for classes, and a teacher instructs on a variety of subjects.

Many aspects of the classroom, however, have not stayed the same.

Many years ago, the only handheld device a student knew was a small chalkboard. Today, students use electronic tablets, small laptops, desktops, and other devices to dive deeper into learning.

These are the tools currently used in our modern economy, and our children deserve to keep up with their peers to be ready for college and career. Unlike a chalkboard, modern educational technology requires infrastructure.

Our older facilities were built before these tools were available, and therefore struggle to meet the demands of our modern world.

Beyond having the proper infrastructure for classroom technology, the building itself needs to be built with an eye toward 21st century learning. This means moving past the static brick and mortar template and building facilities that are flexible enough to meet current and future education demands.

Architectural rendering courtesy of MHTN Architects

The bond will put in motion a 30-40 year strategic plan to rebuild ALL schools on a 21st century learning model. These facilities will be built with materials that allow interior spaces to be shifted and repurposed to meet the needs of the school.

Similar layouts have been used by neighboring school districts, and the price tag is comparable to the old ‘brick and mortar’ style. We’re not just building for current needs, we’re ensuring our learning facilities will be flexible enough to adapt to whatever changes are in store down the road.

To sum up, 21st century education doesn’t mean the most expensive education. It doesn’t mean building monumental schools with lavish features. It means rebuilding and remodeling schools with an eye toward flexibility. It means providing our children with facilities that can support educational tools, so that they can graduate high school prepared for college, career and life.