Congress on Verge of Derailing Innovation in Schools, Threatening America's Competitiveness, According to SETDA

WASHINGTON, DC--(Marketwire - Apr 14, 2011) - This week, Congress is threatening to eliminate the Enhancing Education Through Technology (EETT) state educational technology grants program (ESEA Title II, Part D). EETT is the only dedicated source of federal education funds available to help teachers prepare all students for college and 21st century careers through the smart use of technology in America's public schools. The State Educational Technology Directors Association -- the principal association representing the technology leadership of state departments of education -- urges Congress to restore full funding for this mission critical program.

"Ensuring today's students have access to learning technologies in the classroom is a key education and workforce development issue," said SETDA executive director, Douglas Levin. "By denying students access to these tools -- and well-trained and supported teachers -- we are asking schools to win the future with one hand tied behind their backs. It is critical that Congress demonstrate leadership for the nation's future by ensuring students are ready for 21st century careers and college."

For up-to-date information regarding the technology needs of K-12 schools and select profiles of the EETT program at work, please see the following documents:

• Educational Technology: An Investment in Innovation and School Reform for ALL Students: http://tinyurl.com/5wgwwl2

• Investments in Innovation, School Reform and Equity: Profiles of EETT at Work: http://tinyurl.com/5ttshlh

The State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) is the national member association that represents the interests of the educational technology leadership of state and territorial education agencies in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. SETDA members work collectively and in public-private partnerships to ensure that meaningful technology innovations with broad potential for systemic improvements and cost-savings in teaching, learning and leadership are brought to scale. http://www.setda.org.