Parents question $888K PE outsourcing and technology usage in Santa Clara schools

The recent MVWSD Board Meeting held on April 24, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding the district's approach to physical education and technology use in early education. As the board prepares for the upcoming school year, discussions revealed a growing unease among parents about the outsourcing of physical education and the reliance on technology in classrooms.

One of the primary issues raised was the district's decision to allocate $888,350 for outsourced physical education services, particularly for kindergarten students. A parent expressed frustration that kindergarteners do not receive physical education as part of the core curriculum, suggesting that the district should consider hiring a dedicated PE teacher instead of relying on external contracts. This concern reflects a broader dialogue about the importance of physical activity in early childhood education and the need for equitable access to such programs.

In addition to physical education, the meeting also addressed the district's technology initiatives. A parent voiced concerns about the substantial contracts related to technology, amounting to half a million dollars, and questioned the effectiveness of current educational technology practices. They noted that while some technology use, such as phasing out a second computer for grades K-2, is a positive step, there is still a need for a more thoughtful approach to integrating technology in the classroom. The parent highlighted that many young students struggle with navigating devices like Chromebooks and that current reading programs often do not promote genuine literacy skills, as they primarily offer audiobooks rather than interactive reading experiences.

These discussions underscore a critical moment for the MVWSD as it navigates the balance between modern educational tools and traditional learning methods. The board's decisions in the coming months will likely have lasting implications for how students engage with both physical education and technology in their formative years. As the community awaits further developments, the call for a more integrated and thoughtful approach to these issues remains a priority for many parents and stakeholders.