To correct an imbalance in how state grants have been awarded to schools and libraries for computer training, Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson announced February 10 that he intends to introduce a budget bill this week that will create a separate $1.2-million grant fund for rural areas.
In January, several legislators from southwest, west, and northwest portions of the state complained that grants awarded under the state's Technology for Educational Achievement (TEACH) program, gave most of the money to libraries and schools in richer, more urban regions. Under Thompson's proposal, grants for rural areas would be awarded during the 1999–2000 fiscal year; $35 million in TEACH block grants will be awarded this year to school districts across the state.
“The great advantage of educational technology is its equalizing effect,” said Thompson. “Therefore, we must remain true to the mission of TEACH and make sure all schools share in the resources for this technology.”
Posted February 15, 1999.