A proposed new cell phone tower could improve reception around South Tampa's Chiaramonte Elementary School.

School officials hope it might improve something else: grades.

The Hillsborough County School Board will hear a recommendation for approval of the tower at today's 5 p.m. meeting.

Ridan Industries plans to mount the 120- to 150-foot tower in Chiaramonte's front lawn, next to the bike rack. The tower would be disguised as a flagpole and illuminated at night.

"It could be considered a fundraiser," said Linda Cobbe, spokeswoman for the district.

The $2,500 monthly lease payment would go directly to the school.

Principal Marie Valenti is excited about the money. Her school needs maps, globes, laptop computers and new televisions, she said.

Cell phone towers and schools aren't a new combination.

Seven years ago a tower was raised at Benito Middle School when it opened in New Tampa. Principal Scott Fritz says he has had no complaints.

"It serves the school well. I think honestly it improves my kids' test scores. The more I can dangle in front of their faces to get them to achieve, the better."

Benito students use the approximate monthly $1,000 to celebrate honor roll grades, good attendance and winning science fair projects.

To other schools contemplating a tower Fritz says, "I would definitely advocate for it."

Not everyone is so enthusiastic about the towers.

Some worry about health risks and reduced property values, or that towers may attract lightning or fall on buildings.

Parents at Fishhawk Creek Elementary, in Lithia, where a 190- foot cell tower was erected on adjacent land during the summer, want to see it gone. They worry about health risks for their children.

It's not an easy battle.

A 1996 federal law says towns must accommodate the placement of enough towers to ensure that 911 callers can be located and that proper coverage is provided.

Benito's tower sits in wetlands away from the school, said Fritz, and has lights attached that shine on the sports fields.

Cobb wasn't sure Monday whether Benito is the county's only school with a cell tower on its property.

Valenti knew nothing of cell phone towers before the district contacted her about two months ago.

"I don't think there's any harm that could come of this," she said. "Knowing that it will bring revenue to the school, I don't see why (parents) would be upset over it.

Valenti told her school advisory committee, but hasn't told parents.

"I didn't want to say anything until it was a done deal," she said.