Position on Modernizing Classrooms and Incorporating Technology

By Gary C. Woods

I support modernizing classrooms, incorporating cutting-edge learning technologies, and making our campuses ADA compliant. New technologies and modernized classrooms at ALL campuses is desperately needed. The District needs long-term solutions, not quick fixes. The District, like students, must work smarter--not just harder. Our students are our treasure and legacy.

The Grossmont District has a supportive superintendent, a professional staff, dedicated principals of 11 comprehensive high schools, committed teachers, and 22,150 students--who are our responsibility and our legacy.

Ten of our eleven schools made significant gains in proficiency. It has been challenging, but It has been an incredible 4 years.

There are great opportunities ahead of Grossmont and its students for generations to come.

Issue #1: Grossmont must continue its path to preparing students for the future using 21st century technologies by modernizing all of its campuses. This is my passion and my primary mission. The good news is that technology options at Grossmont are increasing, student math scores are up, and the modernization of our campuses is on schedule.

Issue #2: Grossmont must continue its path to preparing students for college by providing academic rigor, character education, and 21st century learning skills.

Issue #3: Grossmont must continue its path to providing students with Career Tech Pathways that result in real life learning--pathways in agriculture, architecture, construction, engineering, environmental science, informational technology, sports medicine, and welding. The good news is that student involvement in career tech is up.

Issue #4: Grossmont must find ways to rehire teachers laid off due to education funding cuts. At every school in the district there are 40 students in classrooms designed for 30 students because we cannot afford teachers. The bad news is that this teacher-to-student ratio and classroom overcrowding hurts learning, lowers college entrance exam scores, and results in many students falling through the cracks and dropping out of school.