Following the announcement of the One to World program, members of faculty and the student body have expressed concerns over the nature of the funding of the Chromebooks for incoming freshmen.

The plan was first publicly presented at the February 29th school committee meeting and was unanimously approved by the committee, after much discussion, on the night of the presentation. One major point of contention for the voting committee members was the funding, which will be procured through 12 exchange students’ tuitions, as noted in an earlier proposal from a group of Westford administrators.

Click here to read our full overview of the One to World technology plan

“In this tight budget year, the operating budget could not support a proposal such as this.  Therefore, we had to think creatively about other opportunities that could bring revenue into the district,” said Assistant Superintendent Kerry Clery.

The remaining funds from the tuition that won’t be used for One to World are to be allocated as follows:

1. English Language learning teachers
2. Stipends for coordinator of activities and for the host families
3. Stipend for guidance counselor to assist group of students at any time

However, some students and staff feel that this money is not being used in an ethical way.

“It’s kind of a cruel system. Other school systems have instituted it and it’s basically using international students and putting them in a bad position,” said junior Eliza Bernard.

In fact, one student believes that the fund allocation in the school, in general, is flawed.

“I think it’s a very stupid plan […] the school’s wasting money on things that are not necessary. I feel like they should fund more of the academic programs,” said sophomore Bhoomi Soni.

According to Clery, once the exchange plan was identified as a viable option for funding, she felt as though there was no need to explore other options on the matter at hand.

Furthermore, while Clery understands the concerns of students and staff of the nature of the funding, she cites a lack of knowledge on the planning of the program as a reason for the majority of these concerns.

“I respect those who share these concerns because, those who have not been part of these early stages likely do not understand the planning and thought that went into the proposal.  The supports we will have in place will make this experience most successful for our international visitors.” said Clery.