The Quakertown Community School District is taking a careful look at its calculator use policy for students.
At Thursday evening's school board meeting, Dr. Rachel Holler, director of educational programs, presented the board with research conducted on calculator use in district math classes, college classes and surrounding districts.
According to Holler, the Pennsylvania Core Standards set the parameters for calculator use.
"It's to make sure they [students] are able to use the appropriate tools," she said.
The state standards, Holler said, encourage schools to use appropriate tools, such as calculators.
"Overall, there is a balanced use to calculators," she said.
To develop more information, Holler researched the calculator use policies of Central Bucks, Palisades and Pennridge school districts.
She also reached out to Millersville and Penn State universities and the University of Pittsburgh regarding the usage of calculators.
Holler said moving forward the district should continue to ensure implementation of calculator use protocols and encourage ongoing conversations regarding the balance of calculator use.
Board Vice President Joyce King asked Holler how the district can strike the appropriate balance.
"It's hard," Holler said. "You do need to look at every assessment."
Board President Paul Stepanoff reinforced the importance of achieving a proper balance between the use of calculators and mathematical concepts.
"Absolutely, they [students] need it and when they get into the real world they'll use it," he said of the devices.
Stepanoff lauded Holler for analyzing the matter at both the district level and from a long-term perspective as it relates to students moving on to careers and college upon graduation.
The district will continue to evaluate its calculator use policy.
Also during the meeting, the Milford Middle School Jazz Band performed three songs for the board and visitors. The band is led by Alan Shughart.
The band consists of 30 sixth through eighth grade students who audition for a spot on the band.
Board member Charles Shermer also provided a review of financial matters.
Shermer said the average taxpayer will see an $85 increase in their property taxes under the 2015-16 proposed budget.
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