Washington Twp. Schools Behind NJ Average in Computers

are below the state average when it comes to providing enough computers per student as a district, according to the recently released school report cards.

Of the four schools in the district–, , , and –only LVMS was ahead of the state average with 3.3 students per computer. New Jersey’s average, according to the 2009-10 school year report cards, was 3.6 students per computer.

"Do we need more computers?" asked Washington Township Schools Assistant Superintendent Rick Papera. "Of course we do, but it is a large expense."

Papera said the district is maintaining what it has and expanding resources. "We are exploring all the options that are out there to continue to be a cutting edge, 21st century learning environment," Papera said.

"Are students using the computers as the 21st century learning tool that they are?" Papera asked.  "Are they tapping into the vast resources that are out there? Are they making global connections? Here in Washington Township they are."

The Washington Township School district is currently constructing its budget for the 2011-12 school year. What technological advancements take place during the next school year will be largely budget-based.