The Saline Area Schools Board of Education approved a budget update, nearly $918,000 in technology purchases and new furniture for the middle school during its March 10 meeting.
Budget Update Reflects Rising Costs
Board members voted 7-0 to approve changes to the district’s 2025-26 budget. The updated plan shows about $80.3 million in revenue and $85.4 million in spending, with about $17.3 million remaining in the district’s fund balance.
Miranda Owsley, assistant superintendent of finance, said the changes reflect updated state funding numbers, staffing costs, grant activity and rising expenses like electricity and natural gas.
District Approves Technology Purchases
The board also approved $917,603.58 in technology purchases, including 1,800 iPads, 350 Chromebooks, 35 laptops for a high school computer lab and two new internet security systems known as firewalls.
Jay Grossman, director of technology, said many of the district’s current devices are past their expected lifespan.
“At a certain point, the manufacturers stop supporting them,” Grossman said. “They stop doing updates. They stop doing security patches.”
He said older equipment can create security risks and may no longer run needed programs.
Grossman said the Chromebook purchase is part of the district’s plan to move away from students bringing their own devices.
“With this program, students will be provided an equal opportunity for learning,” he said.
The iPad purchase also reflects changes in how younger students use technology. Young 5 classrooms will no longer use iPads, and kindergarten classrooms will use fewer shared devices instead of one per student. The purchase also includes devices for teachers and tools used by students with special needs.
Board members also approved $290,510.08 for furniture for the new Saline Middle School STEAM Center. Rex Clary, executive director of operations, said the purchase will help keep the project on track, with installation planned for this summer.
Sex Education Curriculum Update Reviewed
The board also held a second public hearing on a proposed update to the high school sex education curriculum.
Staff said the current curriculum is outdated and does not fully reflect what students experience today.
“It feels old and doesn’t address the needs of students who are living in the digital age,” said Kristin Hoffman-Peavler.
Presenters said updated lessons would help students make safer and more informed decisions.
“It is imperative that we help students make safe choices with full and accurate information,” Hoffman-Peavler said.
The proposed curriculum, called Rights, Respect, Responsibility, includes topics such as anatomy, relationships, communication, boundaries, sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy options and personal safety.
The presenters said the program aligns with current state standards and best practices.
Board members asked questions about student privacy, homework and how parents can stay informed. Families will continue to be able to review materials and opt their children out of the lessons.
Superintendent Rachel Kowalski also shared updates on the district’s ongoing work in early childhood education, including efforts to expand programming and continue long-term planning. She said the work is part of a broader focus on supporting students before they reach kindergarten.
The next board meeting is scheduled for March 24.
Featured photo: Saline Area Schools’ district office, where the Board of Education meets. Photo by Heather Finch
8123 Main St Suite 200 Dexter, MI 48130
