|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 1, 2003
223 School Districts to get State Technology Grants
Springfield, Ill. -- The State Board of Education today released
the names of 223 school districts throughout the state that
will receive funds through the “Closing the Gap”
(CTG) technology grant initiative. The non-competitive grant
program, now in its third year, helps schools to “close
the gap” by enhancing and expanding the districts’
community-based technology plans.
“Both students and teachers need technology-based resources
to prepare for the future,” said State Superintendent
of Education Robert E. Schiller. “These funds provide
schools with the opportunity to purchase the necessary resources
to meet standards set forth by the State Board of Education.”
Districts must have an approved technology plan in place
and provide matching funds. The specific amount of the grant
is based on a formula that takes into account the wealth of
a district and the number of students with the district receiving
a base amount. The more than $5.5 million in grants being
awarded are funded through the Technology for Success Program,
administered by the State Board.
CTG funds allow schools to purchase hardware, software, supplies
and materials, online resources, etc. and provide professional
development opportunities for teachers. All districts, university
laboratory schools, state charter schools and area vocational
centers were eligible to participate.
Since its inception the programs accomplishments include:
- More than 98% of Illinois school districts have a community-based
technology plan that has been approved by peer review panels.
- Almost all Illinois districts, and a majority of school
buildings, are now connected to the Internet.
- CTG has assisted school districts in keeping technologies
current.
The link below takes you to a list of districts that will
receive grants for the 2003-2004 school year.
www.isbe.net/news/2003/close_gap_recipients03.pdf
|
