Toso: Area education is about more than schools

School Board

By Trisha Marczak (Contact) | The Daily Journal

Published Saturday, October 25, 2008

Michael Toso says he’s running for school board to “publicize” his viewpoint that teaching education should be “more than just about schools.”

Toso’s main emphasis lies in technology. Specifically, Toso is interested in being part of the discussion and creation of a nation-wide Internet database available to — not just public school students — but, to everyone.

“We need to get people to understand what’s going on out there,” Toso said in reference to the potential of information available on the Internet.

When asked about the district’s new iQ academy — an online school — Toso was frustrated with the fact that students had to be enrolled in order to view learning materials.

Toso said all students, who would not necessarily be enrolled, could be “challenged” through tests.

Toso feels that the information should be available to everyone in the nation, not just those enrolled in schools.

“Basically, I’m looking to expand the way we look at education,” Toso said. “That is the main implication there.”

Toso feels that his role on the school board could spark discussion, which he feels is important. In terms of budget restraints and district issues, Toso relates back to a national online learning system, saying it could ease the amount of money spent on books, teachers and other costs.

The national database he’s envisioning could be created by individuals throughout the country, he said, contributing information and materials in textbooks on a volunteer basis. He likened the system to the Jerry Lewis Telethon, “where you have the community contributing for the greater whole.”

In terms of arts and music, Toso says he would like to see students involved in band and orchestra working more independently with the aid of computers to learn and simulate rehearsal with a full band. He said that would be one way of cutting costs, while still maintaining music programs.

All in all, Toso feels the Fergus Falls School Board needs to stop focusing so much on local issues and spend more time and energy attempting to transform public education on a whole.

“We have to know we’re not alone out there,” he said.