The Pueblo, Colorado, school board recently approved using $4.7 million from its capital reserve fund to purchase a variety of technology equipment, including laptops, as part of its 21st Century Tools for 21st Century Education program. This first phase of the program also provides 80 new computers for Pueblo Technical Academy and Promethean white boards for elementary schools.

Ryan Elarton, director of business services, explains that the money to pay for the technology comes from two main sources. The school board recently gave the district permission to refinance the lease on the district’s heating and air conditioning systems at a rate of 4.05 percent, freeing up $3.4 million in equity to spend on the technology. An additional $2.6 million is coming from Qualified Zone Academy Bonds (QZAB), a bond program supported by the federal government.

"Preparing today's youth to succeed in the 21st century requires a new kind of teaching and learning," said Ginger Andenucio, assistant superintendent. "Our learning environment needs to be 21st century."

Speaking to the local Rotary Club, superintendent Dan Lere explained that teachers will be encouraged, but not required, to use the computer in teaching. "We want commitment, not compliance," he said. "We want people who are committed because it's the right thing to do and it's what's best for the kids. I know it's scary for some, but it's the way kids are learning and it's the way we are going to teach."

Almost 90 percent of teachers are planning to use laptops and participate in training.

Source : Pueblo Chieftain, “ Plan to put a computer in lap of each student” and “Superintendent touts new learning” by Gayle Perez