On Par Budget Brings New Technology to OPS

With its newly introduced preliminary school budget, is planning on installed new technology and replacing the rear courtyard wall through a tax levy of $9,846,269, a 2% increase over the prior year, or a $62.19 increase on the average household of $531,810.

The total budget $10,475,410 includes an of $87,024 increase from the 2011-12 state aid amount of $241,908. is expected to receive $328,932 in state aid for the 2012-13 school year.

"This budget maintains all current staff levels," interim superintendent Dr. Maria Nuccetelli said. "We will have a continued support of Language Art series, the new Mathematics and Science standards, social studies, health, physical education, technology enhancements and both visual and performing arts."

Among an enhanced technology plan includes a potential WiFi pilot initiative, installation of Easi-Teach Technology throughout the building and the replacement of computers.

"Easi-Teach are the interactive smartboards," Nuccetelli said. "The PTA had been working to place smartboards in grades four, five and six and we've found ourselves in the position to cover the rest of the grades. In addition, we'll look to have those teachers who are proficient with the smartboards to create lesson plans on a shared drive for other teachers to pull from throughout the year."

The district is also planning on setting aside $100,000 in capital outlay towards the replacement of the rear courtyard wall. The proposed WiFi pilot program would be used in conjuction with the school librarian so that all students would have access in the library either through the use of an Ipad or a tablet, but final details have yet to be determined.

"This is an opportunity to take the funding and focus on one time expenditures," Nuccetelli said. "There is no comfort level that we will get the same state aid next year. This an opportunity to do some good things that will last a long time."

A full public hearing on the school budget is scheduled for March 28, 7pm at .