Voice Box Tackles School Funding

Arlington Independent Media's (AIM) staff-produced monthly show, Voice Box, is back this week discussing Arlington Public Schools.

"Voice Box is a local program with a global perspective," said Ned Dickert, AIM Communication Coordinator. "Tackling a wide range of issues from immigration, to transportation, to housing, to carrying concealed weapons on college campuses, Voice Box examines topics that have both regional and national impacts."

September's Voice Box, which is hosted by Christian Dorsey, will be filmed on Sept 16, from 7:30-8:30 p.m. The panel will include Arlington's Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Patrick Murphy; Assistant Superintendent Finance/Management, Mary Beth Chambers and Arlington County School Board Member, Sally Baird.

The panel will discuss and answer questions from the audience regarding school funding, budget cuts, construction projects in addition to other plans and projects for the school year.

"The issue of budget cuts this year for the schools is kind of a foreign concept for Arlington," said Devin Gallagher, staff producer. "Where those cuts are going to be made is going to be a topic of discussion as well. "

With the issues that could impact the education of Arlington students, the September Voice Box is sure to catch the attention of Arlingtonians.

"The topic is so timely because the school board has designated four public meetings in October and November because they've gotten so many calls from parents," Gallagher said. "What's great is we're setting the show up a month in advance from that, and it will air for a month before those meetings happen, so it's a good opportunity for them to possibly set an agenda, and get some initial questions answered."

Residents are encouraged to come be a part of the audience or call in during the program to ask the panel questions. Space is limited and filming begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. so arriving early is advised.

Voice Box will air live at 7:30 p.m. on Sept. 16, and will continue to air throughout the month, on channel 38 for Verizon and channel 69 for Comcast. 

AIM is located in Clarendon at 2701-C Wilson Blvd. Arlington VA 22201 (across from Whole Foods.)