NEW RELEASE DATE: Computer Assisted Writing RFP - for High Needs Districts

Well, it’s not all I had hoped for, but using Title IID funds, we have been able to somewhat resurrect the Computer Assisted Writing grant program that lost state funds earlier this year. Unfortunately, the use of these funds is restricted to high-needs districts so only those districts are eligible to apply. (The list will be included in the RFP, and will likely include those previously eligible for Title IID grants.) A total of $450,000 is available, with individual awards of up to $60,000.

There are two significant changes to the new RFP: The first is that at least 25% of funds must be devoted to professional development activities. This is a requirement of all Title IID activities. The second change is that you must implement and run your program during the 2009-10 and 2010-11 school years. Different students may be involved in each year.

UPDATE: The RFP should be posted on the CSDE Website on June 19, 2009, with a due date of July 30, 2009.

Discovery Education's Young Scientist Challenge

Does one of your students have what it takes to be America's Top Young Scientist? Discovery Education and 3M are looking for a few great students to inspire them with their enthusiasm for science! Students create a short (1-2 min.) video about one of this year's scientific topics. Finalists win a trip to New York City to compete in the Discovery Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge finals. More Details: http://www.youngscientistchallenge.com/

Free Workshop Opportunity

For all you Mac-friendly districts, CREC is offering a free workshop that shows how features built into Macintosh computers provide innovative solutions for students with vision, hearing and motor skills challenges. Learn how to break down the barriers to accessing information technology - and how to maximize the independence, participation and productivity of students with learning hurdles.

Curriculum directors, special educators, and technology specialists are particularly encouraged to attend.

MAY 28, 2009, 8:30 - 12:30
CREC-Coltsville, Rooms 1 & 2, 34 Sequassen Street, Hartford, CT 06106
To register: http://edseminars.apple.com/seminars/event.php?eventID=1691

Ed Tech Data Collection - National Data Points

As you may know, state educational technology directors are meeting next month in Washington to learn about all the new things happening with Title IID and the Enhancing Education Through Technology (EETT) program. In preparation for the meeting, the US DOE is asking states and districts to provide feedback on the current and potential data collection points to help ensure the quality of data collection in educational technology.

A survey has been created to collect feedback. The survey is divided into four short sections that align with the goals of the EETT program with possible data elements and data collection methods for each of the goals. I urge you to complete this brief survey so that the US DOE is provided with sufficient information on possible data elements and data collection methods. The deadline for state and district submission is April 30, 3009. (Consider doing it now while you are thinking about it! It will take you less than 5 minutes.)
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=1tPnitHP6FgJLXBlrK_2fKaQ_3d_3d