Student Technical Services

TechCrew Field Trips

2010-03-11T20:17:00.012-06:00

Who: Waters Elementary School
When: Tuesday, March 18th, 2010
Where: Microsoft Technology Center
200 East Randolph Drive, 2nd Floor
Contact: Victor Herrera, Student Tech Services
Time: Bus is to arrive at Microsoft by 9:30am
Bus departs from Microsoft at 1:30pm
Lunch: Pizza and pop lunch provided by Microsoft

Other factoids…
The school provides and pays for the bus transportation. The school may bring as many chaperones as are required by the school. School chaperones are to secure all approval documents required by the Board's Student Travel policy. IMPORTANT: All participating students’ parents must have signed CPS’ Photo Consent Form for their child, as Microsoft typically takes photos and may decide to use them in internal publications. The site for these forms, in English, Spanish and Polish, can be found by searching the CPS website for Photo Consent.)

Save the Date: TECH 2010 May 6

2009-12-07T12:28:00.001-06:00

Applications are now being accepted for TECH 2010: Students for the Information Age, which will take place this spring at the Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield. To apply, or view complete event information, please visit the TECH 2010 Web site at http://www.springfieldtech2000.org.

The TECH 2010 event strives to showcase classroom technology projects from across the state. The purpose of the event is two-fold: 1) to raise awareness of the critical role technology plays in preparing students to succeed in today’s world; and 2) to show the need for increased funding for classroom technology.

All schools from throughout CPS are encouraged to apply to participate in this event. Each team is limited to a total of four participants who will demonstrate a school project from approximately noon – 3 p.m. the day of the event in the Rotunda of the Illinois State Capitol. Schools selected to participate in TECH 2010 will send a team of two or three students to Springfield accompanied by one teacher or administrator.

Selected teams will represent a balanced distribution between legislative districts, grade levels, and curricular areas. Our goal is to select at least one team from every legislative district (representative & senatorial) in CPS.

There is no cost for schools to participate. Transportation will be provided to and from the event. Teams will also receive food coupons. Substitute teacher coverage will be provided.

Note: TECH 2010 will take place May 6, 2010, when legislators are in session.

If your school would like to apply to participate in this exciting event, please submit an online application at http://www.springfieldtech2000.org by Jan. 11, 2010.

Please view the attached flyer for additional information about TECH 2010.

Sincerely,

Victor Herrera & Hassie M. Johnson
CPS TECH 2010 Planning Committee
TechCrew@cps.k12.il.us

2009 Best Buy/TechCrew Geek Squad Summer Academy

2009-06-19T15:26:00.002-05:00

Preparing Students for a 21st Century Workforce

When and Where:
July 27 – 31, 2009

William Jones College Preparatory High School
600 South State Street
Chicago, IL 60605

How is the week organized:
Monday: Orientation Day, Participating students and their parent(s)/legal guardian(s) must attend from 9:00AM – 12:00PM.

Tues – Thur: Each day, students take four hands-on technology classes and participate on fun-filled technology-based games and activities from 9:00AM – 5:00PM.

Friday: Closing Ceremony from 9:00AM – 12:00PM.

Who can attend:
Participants are students entering grades 6th through 12th in CPS TechCrew schools (This includes current TechKnow schools). Space is limited to 120 students.

Session Information:
• PC Build: PC Build teaches the basic fundamentals of this essential technology. Junior Agents will build a computer from scratch and learn some vital troubleshooting tips! Junior Agents will also have an opportunity to compete in the coveted PC Build relay race!

• Web Wizards: Junior Agents will create their own website through Junior Agent Website, J.A.Ws. Geek Squad Summer Academy securely hosts J.A.Ws and encourages the Junior Agents to create a totally unique webspace for themselves. They will also learn the basics of how to use different web technologies with an emphasis on internet security, safety and ethics.

• Green Technology: Technology not only makes our lives easier, it helps us live smarter with less impact on the environment. Students will explore what technologies are helping us live greener lives through this class.

• Communications: This class will be assisted by Geek Squad Agents from around the world who will ‘remote’ in and show Junior Agents the difference in active and passive communication. Junior agents will also learn how to safely communicate with friends and family in other parts of the world using the internet.

• Games and Activities Include: Battle of The Bands™ (Rock band™); Wii Olympics™; Jewelry Making (from computer parts); Dance Off™ (Dance Revolution™).

MOUSE Training for all new TechCrew Coordinators Jan. 23, 2009

2009-01-09T14:35:00.002-06:00

New TechCrew Coordinators MUST attend.

Elizabeth Training Facility - ETF
4th Floor Commons Area
320 North Elizabeth Street
Chicago, IL 60607

Friday, January 23rd, 2009
8:30pm – 2:30pm

Registration is open for the TechCrew Training Certification Workshop on January 23.

Course Title: MOUSE Training for all new TechCrew Coordinators
Section Title: TechCrew Training Certification Workshop #4

For more information about the course and to register, click here: http://pdcentral.cps.k12.il.us

CPS TechCrew Information Session | Jan. 16, 2009

2009-01-09T14:10:00.002-06:00

This session covers the requirements to bring the program to the school.

Elizabeth Training Facility - ETF
4th Floor Commons Area
320 North Elizabeth Street
Chicago, IL 60607

1:00pm 2:- 30pm

CPS TechCrew is a CPS, after-school program designed to enrich students' educational experiences and job readiness skills by providing them with a coach, training and framework to carry out basic computer problem resolution within the confines of their school.

Registration is open for the TechCrew Information Session on January 16.

Course Title: TechCrew Information Session
Section Title: TechCrew Information Session - Six

Agenda:

* Welcome and introduction
* Program overview
* TechCrew curriculum, certification and online access
* Technician Skills Tracker
* Best practices: ideas on how to successfully run the program
* TechCrew Help Desk
* FirstClass collaboration: workspaces and conferences
* iShare Weekly status report
* Q & A Session

For more information about the course and to register, click here: http://pdcentral.cps.k12.il.us

Feel free to share this information with your contacts and colleagues.

Presidet-elect announces Arne Duncan as the Department of Education nominee

2008-12-17T13:06:00.001-06:00

Obama-Arne

Eli Whitney Pizza Party

2008-12-17T13:02:00.002-06:00

Eli Whitney Pizza Party

TechKnow Training, October 18th, 2008

2008-12-17T13:01:00.001-06:00

TechKnow Training

Halla's Perfect Storm of Technology Neglect

2008-12-02T11:12:00.002-06:00

Halla's Perfect Storm of Technology Neglect: "

Back in 2005, I sat in on a great keynote speech by Brian Halla, CEO and President of National Semiconductor, who talked about the lack of U.S. com...

You're Invited to Tech|Talk 2008

2008-12-02T09:49:00.000-06:00

TechKnow and TechCrew Coordinators,

You are cordially invited to attend TechTalk 2008 on Dec. 8 or 9, 7:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at the UIC Forum at 725 W. Roosevelt Ave.

This year, we will focus on the dynamics of being a Technology Resource/Coordinator. Specifically, we will walk you through a “day in the life,” giving attention to the technology environment, tools, and processes. We will also offer a number of sessions that go into more detail.

In addition to sessions, we will feature the CPS TechWorks area so you can ask questions about some of the applications that are currently being used in CPS, keynote speakers, technology displays, and a digital media library.

Whether you are a new Technology Resource/Coordinator or a seasoned veteran, you should walk away with new or sharpened skills.

Transportation and Meals
Parking and bus service will be available. More information will be shared prior to the event. Also, a continental breakfast and lunch will be served.

Questions and Comments
TechTalk coordinators will be available daily to answer questions through the FirstClass District Wide TechCO user conference. Additional information and updates will be placed in the TechCO Alerts and District Wide TechCO user conferences.

* Note: TechTalk 2008 will count toward professional development credits (CPDU).

We look forward to seeing you!

CPS TechCrew | Tech 2009 Announcement

2008-11-14T14:57:00.007-06:00

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR TECH 2009!

APPLY ONLINE: Applications are now being accepted at http://www.springfieldtech2000.org/. The deadline to apply is January 12, 2009.

WHO SHOULD APPLY: All schools and districts in Illinois are invited to apply to participate in TECH 2009.

OVERVIEW OF EVENT: TECH 2009 is a not-for-profit initiative supported by a broad range of education and business organizations. Its purpose is
two-fold: 1) to raise awareness of the critical role technology plays in preparing students to succeed in today¹s world; and 2) to show the need for increased funding for classroom technology.

Selected school teams will demonstrate a school project to legislators, business leaders and the general public in the State Capitol Building Rotunda. Each team of four (one teacher and three students, or one teacher, one administrator and two students) will demonstrate their project either during a morning or afternoon time slot (approx. 9am-Noon or Noon-3pm). For more information, go to the TECH 2009 website, http://www.springfieldtech2000.org/.

LOCATION OF TECH 2009: State Capitol Building, Springfield, IL

DATE OF TECH 2009: TECH 2009 will be held in the Spring of 2009. The committee is waiting for the legislative calendar to be set before securing a date for the event. The TECH 2009 committee is hopeful an April 30, 2009 date will coincide with when legislators are in session in Springfield.
Once the legislative calendar is set, the date of TECH 2009 will be announced on the TECH 2009 website.

SELECTION OF SCHOOLS TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS EVENT: School teams will be selected to represent a balanced distribution between legislative districts, grade levels and curricular areas. Preference will be given to projects that demonstrate improved teaching and learning through the use of technology.
Our goal is to select one team from every legislative district (representative & senatorial) in the state. Schools will be notified of their selection status in mid-January, 2009.

TECH events are not only fun but memorable experiences for participants and observers alike. We hope you will apply to participate in TECH 2009.

i-SAFE International Poster Contest

2008-11-12T12:27:00.000-06:00

i-SAFE Educators,

i-SAFE is excited to announce a new student contest. The i-SAFE International Poster Challenge gives your students an opportunity to draw attention to e-Safety. Your students can make an impact and help change the way other students see the Internet while utilizing their art skills.

They see them on the highway, malls and movie theaters. Now, they can take the i-SAFE Poster Challenge and spotlight e-Safety in schools. Students can choose an e-Safety issue such as: texting, cyber bullying, gaming, online predators, or piracy. Then, express their creativity using any artistic styles such as political, movie, inspirational, graffiti, or billboard design.

Once your students have finished their poster, have them send it via e-mail or U.S. mail to i-SAFE by Dec.15. Winners will be announced in elementary, middle school, and high school levels. The winning students and schools will receive national recognition and have their posters distributed as part of our educational program.

All the information on the contest, including judging and prizes, can be found at http://xblock.isafe.org/contests.php. Please e-mail us at contest@isafe.org with any questions. Thanks and good luck!

TechCrew Workshop 2007

2008-10-20T11:41:00.001-05:00

View Album

Tech 2007 | Springfield, IL

2008-10-20T11:35:00.001-05:00

View Album

Training for all new Dell TechKnow Coaches | Saturday, October 18

2008-10-20T10:59:00.000-05:00

View Album

Phoenix Pizza Party

2008-10-20T10:57:00.001-05:00

View Album

11th Annual High School Fair

2008-10-20T10:55:00.001-05:00

View Album

Training for all new TechCrew Coaches | Saturday, October 25

2008-10-20T10:00:00.001-05:00

Anyone can attend this training as a refresher course; however, only new coaches will be compensated. New Coaches MUST Attend.

Medill Training Center
Room 107
1326 West 14th Place
Chicago, IL 60608

Saturday, October 25th, 2008
8:00pm – 2:30pm

TechCrew (Powered by MOUSE) is a CPS, after-school program designed to enrich students’ educational experiences and job readiness skills by providing them with a coach, training and framework to carry out basic computer problem resolution within the confines of their school.

Registration is open for the TechCrew Trainer Certification Workshop on October 25.
Click here to sign-up

Course Title: MOUSE Training for all new TechCrew Coaches
Section Title: TechCrew Trainer Certification Workshop #3

Agenda:

***Forthcoming ***

For more information about the course and to register, click here: http://pdcentral.cps.k12.il.us/

Parking is available in the CPS Parking Lot located on the west side of the building. A light lunch will be provided.

TechCrew Information Session | Oct. 24, 2008

2008-10-20T09:56:00.003-05:00

This session covers the requirements to bring the program to the school.

Elizabeth Training Facility—ETF
4th Floor Commons Area
320 North Elizabeth Street
Chicago, IL 60607

Friday, October 24nd, 2008
1:00pm – 2:30pm

TechCrew (Powered by MOUSE) is a CPS, after-school program designed to enrich students’ educational experiences and job readiness skills by providing them with a coach, training and framework to carry out basic computer problem resolution within the confines of their school.

Registration is open for the TechCrew Information Session on October 24.
Click here to sign-up

Course Title: TechCrew Information Session
Section Title: TechCrew Information Session - Three

Agenda:
* Welcome and introduction* Program overview* TechCrew curriculum, certification and online access* Technician Skills Tracker* Best practices: ideas on how to successfully run the program* TechCrew Help Desk* FirstClass collaboration: workspaces and conferences* iShare Weekly status report* Q & A Session

For more information about the course and to register, click here: http://pdcentral.cps.k12.il.us/

Feel free to share this information with your contacts and colleagues.

WGN WeatherBug Schools - Be the First HD School in the Area

2008-10-17T08:18:00.003-05:00

HD Early-Adopter Upgrade now available to WGN WeatherBug Schools! Schools that are part of the WGN WeatherBug Schools Program have been chosen to be part of an HD Early-Adopter Upgrade that awards significant discounts on the new high definition camera. The HD Upgrade provides your school with the next generation HD Cam for use in the classroom, on the the web, and by broadcast partners like WGN to live, local, neighborhood-level weather conditons.

New Tools This School Year
My World GIS™ Powerful GIS mapping of WeatherBug data
Online Weather Center Website weather center for your school
Newly UpdatedWeatherBug Achieve Integrate your data into the classroom
Specials

HD Early-Adopter Upgrade

Visual learning at its best: Rain bands moving through Red Rock are clearly indicated in high definition.

Dear Educator,This school year we're unveiling new solutions to better engage and motivate your students and ensure that your school receives the full benefit of the WeatherBug Schools Program. We added powerful GIS mapping software that integrates your weather station data, a new Online Weather Center that displays your data and forecast information for all to see on the Web, and high definition camera integration in WeatherBug Achieve.That's right, WeatherBug has gone HD! Our new HD weather cameras provide the next generation of high-definition images for use in schools and by WeatherBug TV broadcast partners like WGN to report on live, local, neighborhood-level weather conditions. Available immediately, the new HD weather cameras deliver exceedingly clear, high-definition images of storms and weather systems as they move through your neighborhood.What's more, we've been asked to build-out and seed the HD network in the WGN viewing area. As a result, your school has been chosen to be part of an HD Early-Adopter Upgrade that awards significant discounts on the new HD upgrade.The HD Early-Adopter Upgrade is just for WeatherBug Schools and is available for a limited time — so hurry, you must register your school by October 31, 2008, to be eligible. We want you to make sure your school is receiving the full benefit of your weather station investment and the WGN WeatherBug Schools Program.Thanks, and let me know if I can answer any questions you may have.Best regards,Andy HausmanWeatherBug Customer Relations Manager Phone: (800) 544-4429, ext. 4208Email: ahausman@aws.com

This message is being sent to you from WeatherBug® Education. To unsubscribe from this list, please CLICK HERE. Please allow up to 72 hours for complete removal. Please do not reply to this email. You can also request removal from our list by sending mail to: WeatherBug Customer Support, 12410 Milestone Center Drive, Suite 300, Germantown, MD 20876.

ITS Academy is NOW Available through VPN!!

2008-01-30T14:31:00.000-06:00

ITS Academy is NOW Available through VPN!!
http://itsacademy.cps.k12.il.us

Information & Technology Services (ITS) is pleased to announce that ITS Academy can now be accessed via VPN (VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORK)! The ITS Academy is an internally hosted, training & development resource which provides engaging, video-based training for Technology Coordinators and advanced technology users within CPS. All courses are self-paced and provide post-level assessments, printable study guides and are NOW available 24/7!! These courses are available either as an alternative to face-to-face instruction or as a supplemental resource to build one’s human capital.

**If you don’t have VPN access, please download VPN Service Request Form **

What is the ITS Academy?

The ITS Academy is an internally hosted, training, and development resource that provides engaging, video-based training for all ITS staff and advanced technology users within CPS. All courses are self-paced, provide post-level assessments and printable study guides, and are available 24/7. These courses are available either as an alternative to face-to-face instruction or as a supplemental resource.

Benefits of the ITS Academy

Provides engaging multimedia content anytime, anywhere
Addresses various technical and professional needs
Serves CPS employees’ training and professional development needs in a cost-effective manner
Supplies training modules that are self-paced and time-effective, by displaying content in separate modules.
Resides behind a CPS firewall, so users can log on securely using their CPS user ID and password.
Provides content that can help staff members prepare for various industry certification exams and/or expand skill sets.
Tracks courses through a built-in Learning Management System (LMS) (via the administrator).
Aligns to the CPS core strategies by 1) Increasing Literacy (technology) 2) Improving Human Capital 3) Expanding Learning Opportunities

How to Begin

· Step 1: Go to http://itsacademy.cps.k12.il.us

· Step 2: Enter your CPS username and password (to reset your password visit https://password.cps.k12.il.us)

· Step 3: Under the “Student Tools” section, select “View Available Courses.” You may want to consult with your principal or department head to discuss training options that align with your performance evaluation and support your day-to-day responsibilities. In some instances, your manager (Victor Herrera) may bundle together courses for you to take; your principal or department head may feel that they will increase your human capital and further support your school’s projects/programs.

· Step 4: Once you have identified your training course(s), select the “E-mail Course Request” link found under the “Student Tools” section. Highlight the course(s) that you would like to take or have been requested to take, select the appropriate training manager (Victor Herrera) to the right, and click the “Send” button at the bottom of the screen. Please provide your principal’s or department head’s name in the comment box as well as a brief justification for the request. An e-mail request will be sent to the training manager and then forwarded to your principal or department head for approval to release the course. You should receive an e-mail confirmation within 48 hours of your request.

For more information regarding the ITS Academy, please contact Victor Herrera, TechCrew Program Coordinator, at 773-553-6670 or vherrera@cps.k12.il.us.

*The ITS Academy content, used in isolation, does not guarantee a passing score on any industry certification exam. It is highly recommended that supplemental study guides and/or instruction accompany these modules when preparing for any formal exams.

Notice of Grant Opportunity - DCEO Digital Divide Program

2008-01-08T11:40:00.000-06:00

IL DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY
BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE PROGRAM

NOTICE OF GRANT OPPORTUNITY AND WORKSHOPS
FISCAL YEAR 2008

SUMMARY: The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announce the release of the Digital Divide Grant Program 2008 application. The immediate goal of the Program is to increase access to computers and technology training in low-income communities. Under this program, the Department is authorized to make grants to support Community Technology Centers. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE APPLICATION DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 15, 2008

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS AND COMMUNITIES: The Department seeks applications from Community Technology Centers located in and serving "eligible communities". An eligible community is a community in which not less than 40% of students are eligible for a free or reduced price lunch under the national school lunch program, or in which not less than 30% of students are eligible for a free lunch under the national school lunch program. Community Technology Centers include public hospitals, libraries, park districts, state educational agencies, local educational agencies, institutions of higher education, public and private nonprofit or for-profit educational organizations. In addition to being an eligible entity, a CTC must provide computer access and educational services to the public at least twelve (12) hours each week. Please refer to the application for complete eligibility requirements.

ELIGIBLE COSTS: The maximum grant award allowed under the Digital Divide Law is $75,000 per Fiscal Year. The Department will fund both equipment and training costs under this program. Funds may be used to provide training services and activities that use technology to improve academic achievement, career development, and adult education. Grant funds may also be used for equipment, software, and other networking capabilities.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Copies of the funding application may be obtained via download on the Department's web site at http://www.illinoisbiz.biz/dceo/Bureaus/Technology/Technology+Grants+Programs/1-Eliminate+the+Digital+Divide.htm. Printed copies of the application are available upon request. Questions and requests pertaining to this program should be directed to John Barr, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, 100 West Randolph Suite 3-400, Chicago, IL 60601, Telephone: (312) 814-2259 or via e-mail john.w.barr@illinois.gov.

INFORMATION SESSIONS
Several information sessions will be held to outline the parameters of the application. Attendance is not required but is recommended. The information sessions will be held at the locations and times listed below. The information sessions are open to the public and reservations are not required. Please note that photo identification may be required by building security.

January 18, 2008
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Michael A. Bilandic Building
160 North LaSalle Street
5th Floor Auditorium – C500
Chicago, Illinois

January 23, 2008
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
DCEO Springfield
620 East Adams Street
1st Floor Theatre
Springfield, Illinois

January 25, 2008
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
DMI
5090 West Harrison
Chicago, Illinois

January 28, 2008
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Rufino Tamayo School
5135 S. California
Chicago, Illinois

February 1, 2008
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Will County Government Office
302 N. Chicago Street, 2nd Floor
Joliet, Illinois

Nominate an 'American Star of Teaching' by March 31

2008-01-07T17:42:00.000-06:00

The U.S. Department of Education's Teacher-to-Teacher Initiative is accepting nominations for 2008 American Stars of Teaching until March 31. Parents, students, colleagues, school administrators and others can nominate an exemplary teacher who they believe has the qualities to be an American Star of Teaching.

We are seeking nominations of teachers across the United States who are improving student achievement, using innovative strategies in the classroom and making a difference in the lives of their students. Teachers across all grade levels and disciplines will be honored as 2008 American Stars of Teaching this fall. To nominate a teacher, go to: http://www.ed.gov/teachers/how/tools/initiative/index.html.

The U.S. Department of Education received more than 4,000 nominations for the 2007 school year. A list of previous honorees can be found at: http://www.ed.gov/teachers/how/tools/initiative/american-stars-teachers.html. You can read archived news stories about some of our 2007 American Stars at https://www.t2tweb.us/Updates/Archives.asp.

TechCrew 2.0: Virtual Maps

2008-01-04T13:21:00.000-06:00

Browse the virtual maps to view schools participating in TECHCREW 2.0.

Dell TechKnow Schools – Elementary Schools ONLY

TechCrew Powered by MOUSE – Elementary Schools

TechCrew Powered by MOUSE – High Schools

TIPP | 1:1 Laptop Schools – Elementary Schools

TECHCREW Trainer Certification Workshop #2

2008-01-03T10:56:00.000-06:00

TECHCREW Trainer Certification Workshop #2

Two Days

January 18th, 2007
9:00AM – 4:00PM
&
January 19th, 2007
8:00AM – 12:00PM

Medill Professional Development & Training Center
1326 W 14th Place
1301W-1400S
(Intersections of 14th Place & Loomis Ave.)
Room 209

To register visit PD CENTRAL:
(http://pdcentral.cps.k12.il.us)

Course Title: TECHCREW Trainer Certification Workshop (two days)
Section Title: TECHCREW Trainer Certification Workshop #2

For additional information about the program visit:
http://www.dgee.org/wiki/User:Vherrera

* No make-up dates will be available. The TechCrew Coach must commit to both days of training. Missing either day would make the school ineligible to participate in the program.

Grants

2008-01-03T10:54:00.000-06:00

January 2008. RFP for Eliminate the Digital Divide grants for computer skill instruction is expected to be released by Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity sometime in January. There are normally public briefings in Chicago and other parts of the state. For new or emerging organizations, there is a recommendation to work with an established organizations. Top grant is $75,000 and average grant is expected to be $40-50,000 to about 80 organizations, depending on last year’s experience. If you would like to be on the Email Master List to receive the RFP, contact DCEO program officer John Barr in Thompson State of Illinois building, 312-814-2259, and give him your email, and ask him any questions.

SBA
Small Business Administration
Office of Women's Business Ownership Program Announcement
Modification 3
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40273

SBA
Small Business Administration
Office of Women's Business Ownership Program Announcement
Modification 2
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40274

SBA
Small Business Administration
Office of Women's Business Ownership Program Announcement
Modification 2
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40275

ED
U.S. Department of Education
Early Reading First Program CFDA Numbers 84.359A and 84.359B Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16372

NSF
National Science Foundation
Centers of Research Excellence in Science and Technology Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16387

DOI
Department of the Interior
U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Region 3
FWS Midwest Conservation Internship Program Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40119

SBA
Small Business Administration
Office of Women's Business Ownership Program Announcement Modification 2
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40273

SBA
Small Business Administration
Office of Women's Business Ownership Program Announcement Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40274

SBA
Small Business Administration
Office of Women's Business Ownership Program Announcement Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40275

HHS
Department of Health and Human Services
Administration for Children and Families Special Improvement Project (SIP) Grant
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40314

USDA
United States Department of Agriculture
CSREES
Integrated Pest Management: Crops at Risk and Risk Avoidance and Mitigation Competitive Grants Program Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16365

HHS
Department of Health and Human Services
National Institutes of Health
Alzheimer s Disease Pilot Clinical Trials (R01) Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16366

NSF
National Science Foundation
Math and Science Partnership
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16367

NSF
National Science Foundation
Research in Disabilities Education
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16368

DOE
US Department of Energy
Golden Field Office
Solar America Initiative Market Transformation: SolarAmerica Cities 2008 Modification 5
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=15792

ED
U.S. Department of Education
Preparation of Leadership Personnel CFDA 84.325D Modification 3
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16056

USDA
United States Department of Agriculture
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Conservation Innovation Grants
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16359

NSF
National Science Foundation
Networking Technology and Systems
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16360

NSF
National Science Foundation
Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16362

DOE
US Department of Energy
National Energy Technology Laboratory
Program Year 2008 Weatherization Formula Grants Modification 4
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=15957

EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
FY 2008 Support of the Five Star Restoration Training Grant Modification 3
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16278

NSF
National Science Foundation
Cyber Trust
Modification 1
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16305

ED
U.S. Department of Education
Even Start Family Literacy Program Women's Prison Grant CFDA 84.313A
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16323

HHS
Department of Health and Human Services
Health Resources & Services Administration
Scholarships for Disadvantaged Students
Modification 4
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16325

NSF
National Science Foundation
Federal Cyber Service: Scholarship for Service
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16327

DHS
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Region 3
Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40167

DHS
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Region 4
Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40168

DHS
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Region 5
Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) Modification 1 http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40170

DHS
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Region 6
Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40171

DHS
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Region 7
Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40172

DHS
Department of Homeland Security
Department of Homeland Security - FEMA
Region 8
Community Assistance Program - State Support Services Element (CAP-SSSE) Modification 1
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40173

EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
FY 2008 Support of the Five Star Restoration Training Grant
Grant
http://www07.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=40252

EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
Strategic Agricultural Initiative Program: FY 2008 Request for Proposals (RFP)
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16306

IMLS
Institute of Museum and Library Services
21st Century Museum Professionals Grants
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16311

DOE
US Department of Energy
Chicago Service Center
Environmental Remediation Science
Program
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16282

EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
Water Quality Cooperative Agreements
Grant
http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?&mode=VIEW&flag2006=true&oppId=16292

Funding Opportunities Go to RAC Funding Database
AHRQ Small Grant Program for Conference Support
Application deadline: Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.
Grants to support conferences that help to further its mission to improve the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care for all Americans.

Research on Rural Mental Health and Drug Abuse Disorders (R01)
Application deadline: Applications accepted on an ongoing basis.
Grants to stimulate research on mental health, HIV/AIDS and/or drug abuse problems in rural and frontier communities.
Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program
Letter of Intent (Required): Jan 10, 2008
Application deadline: Feb 25, 2007
Grants to enhance community food projects that meet a variety of needs for low-income people and their communities.
Neighborhood Wellness Challenge Grants
Application deadline: Dec 31, 2007
Funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) and FQHC look-a-likes for capital improvement projects.
Local Health Departments and Health Centers Collaborating to Recruit and Retain Qualified Workers
Application deadline: Jan 3, 2008
Funding to engage local health departments to recruit and retain qualified personnel.
Foundation of the NSNA Promise of Nursing Scholarship
Application deadline: Jan 13, 2008
Awards scholarships to qualified nursing students.
National Training and Technical Assistance Cooperative Agreements
Application deadline: Jan 14, 2008
Cooperative agreement to provide training and technical assistance to potential and existing health centers and Primary Care Associations (PCAs) to strengthen the Consolidated Health Center Program.

Rural People, Rural Policy Initiative
Geographic Coverage: West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Maryland, Virginia, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, New Mexico, Arizona
Application deadline: Jan 25, 2008
A multi-year national initiative that energizes and equips rural organizations and networks to shape policy that will improve the lives of rural people and the vitality of rural communities.

Rural People, Rural Policy Participation Request Statement Grant Applications
Application deadline: Jan 25, 2008
Grants for participation in the Rural People, Rural Policy Network.
Seva Foundation Native American Grants Program
Application deadline: Jan 25, 2008
Grants to Native American led organizations working to devise solutions to the challenges that face their communities.
Grants for the Integration of Schools and Mental Health Systems
Application deadline: Jan 30, 2008
Provides funds to state educational agencies, local educational agencies, and Indian tribes to improve students’ access to mental health services by creating innovative linkages between school systems and mental health systems.

HeartRescue Grant Program
Application deadline: Feb 1, 2008
Grants to increase awareness and education of sudden cardiac death, early defibrillation, and the need for early intervention among community leaders, first responder organizations and the public.

2008 Grants to Indian Tribal Governments Program
Letter of Intent (Optional): Jan 30, 2008
Application deadline: Feb 6, 2008
Funding to improve the ability of Indian tribal governments to respond to crimes of violence committed against Alaska Native and American Indian women.

Service Expansion in Mental Health/Substance Abuse Services
Application deadline: Feb 12, 2008
The goal of this funding opportunity is to increase the number of health center grantees that provide access to Mental Health/Substance Abuse Services.

Service Expansion in Oral Health Services
Application deadline: Feb 13, 2008
The goal of this funding opportunity is to increase the number of health center grantees that provide access to oral health services.

Indian Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program (IASAP)
Application deadline: Feb 14, 2008
Grants to develop or enhance tribal justice systems, with a special focus on reducing crime associated with the distribution and abuse of alcohol and controlled substances.

Avon Foundation Breast Care Fund (AFBCF)
Application deadline: Feb 15, 2008
Grants for breast cancer early detection programs.
Nancy R. Gelman Foundation Seed Grant Competition
Application deadline: Feb 20, 2008
Funding for projects aimed at improving outcomes for women with breast cancer.
Public Health Conference Support Grant Program
Letter of Intent (Optional): Feb 1, 2008
Application deadline: Mar 3, 2008
Grants to provide partial support for specific non-Federal conferences in the areas of health promotion and disease prevention information and education programs, and applied research.

2008 Shade Structure Program
Application deadline: Mar 5, 2008
Funds for the purchase for permanent shade structures to non-profit organizations in need of shade for outdoor locations.

30 Top Jobs of 2008

2008-01-02T13:22:00.000-06:00

30 Top Jobs of 2008
By Rachel Zupek, CareerBuilder.com writer

A new year means new beginnings: new resolutions, ideas and friends; new habits, relationships and goals; new salaries, titles and responsibilities. And perhaps most importantly, new jobs. Lots of ‘em. And not just for 2008, either - until 2016.

Total employment is expected to increase by 15.6 million jobs during the 2006-16 decade, according to the most recent employment projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Almost all of this growth will occur in the service-providing sector, which will account for 75 percent of all jobs in 2016.

Professional and related professions and service occupations are projected to grow most quickly, accounting for more than six of 10 new jobs created throughout 2006-2016. Twenty-eight of the 30 fastest-growing jobs are in professional and related occupations and service positions.

Interested in getting in on the new job action this year? Here are the 30 fastest-growing growing occupations for 2006-2016, according to the BLS.

1. Network systems and data communications analysts
2006 employment: 262,000
2016 projection: 402,000
Percent growth: 53.4
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

2. Personal and home care aides
2006 employment: 767,000
2016 projection: 1,156,000
Percent growth: 50.6
Salary range: Less than $21,220
Education/training: On-the-job training

3. Home health aides
2006 employment: 787,000
2016 projection: 1,171,000
Percent growth: 48.7
Salary range: Less than $21,220
Education/training: On-the-job training

4. Computer software engineers, applications
2006 employment: 507,000
2016 projection: 733,000
Percent growth: 44.6
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

5. Veterinary technologists and technicians
2006 employment: 71,000
2016 projection: 100,000
Percent growth: 41
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Associate degree

6. Personal financial advisors
2006 employment: 176,000
2016 projection: 248,000
Percent growth: 41
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

7. Makeup artists, theatrical and performance
2006 employment: 2,000
2016 projection: 3,000
Percent growth: 39.8
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Postsecondary vocational award

8. Medical assistant
2006 employment: 417,000
2016 projection: 565,000
Percent growth: 35.4
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Moderate on-the-job training

9. Veterinarians
2006 employment: 62,000
2016 projection: 84,000
Percent growth: 35
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: First professional degree

10. Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors
2006 employment: 83,000
2016 projection: 112,000
Percent growth: 34.3
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

11. Skin care specialists
2006 employment: 38,000
2016 projection: 51,000
Percent growth: 34.3
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Postsecondary vocational award

12. Financial analysts
2006 employment: 221,000
2016 projection: 295,000
Percent growth: 33.8
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

13. Social and human service assistants
2006 employment: 339,000
2016 projection: 453,000
Percent growth: 34.3
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Moderate on-the-job training

14. Gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators
2006 employment: 9,000
2016 projection: 12,000
Percent growth: 33.6
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Moderate on-the-job training

15. Physical therapist assistants
2006 employment: 60,000
2016 projection: 80,000
Percent growth: 32.4
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Associate degree

16. Pharmacy technicians
2006 employment: 285,000
2016 projection: 376,000
Percent growth: 32
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Moderate on-the-job training

17. Forensic science technicians
2006 employment: 13,000
2016 projection: 17,000
Percent growth: 30.7
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

18. Dental hygienists
2006 employment: 167,000
2016 projection: 217,000
Percent growth: 30.1
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Associate degree

19. Mental health counselors
2006 employment: 100,000
2016 projection: 130,000
Percent growth: 30
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Master’s degree

20. Mental health and substance abuse social workers
2006 employment: 122,000
2016 projection: 159,000
Percent growth: 29.9
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Master’s degree

21. Marriage and family therapists
2006 employment: 25,000
2016 projection: 32,000
Percent growth: 29.8
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Master’s degree

22. Dental assistants
2006 employment: 280,000
2016 projection: 362,000
Percent growth: 29.2
Salary range: $21,260 - $30,560
Education/training: Moderate on-the-job training

23. Computer systems analysts
2006 employment: 504,000
2016 projection: 650,000
Percent growth: 29
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

24. Database administrators
2006 employment: 119,000
2016 projection: 154,000
Percent growth: 28.6
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

25. Computer software engineers, systems software
2006 employment: 350,000
2016 projection: 449,000
Percent growth: 28.2
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Bachelor’s degree

26. Gaming and sports book writers and runners
2006 employment: 18,000
2016 projection: 24,000
Percent growth: 28
Salary range: Less than $21,220
Education/training: On-the-job training

27. Environmental science and protection technicians
2006 employment: 36,000
2016 projection: 47,000
Percent growth: 28
Salary range: $30,630 - $46,300
Education/training: Associate degree

28. Manicurists and pedicurists
2006 employment: 78,000
2016 projection: 100,000
Percent growth: 27.6
Salary range: Less than $21,220
Education/training: Postsecondary vocational award

29. Physical therapists
2006 employment: 173,000
2016 projection: 200,000
Percent growth: 27.1
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Master’s degree

30. Physician assistants
2006 employment: 66,000
2016 projection: 83,000
Percent growth: 27
Salary range: $46,360 or more
Education/training: Master’s degree

Rachel Zupek is a writer and blogger for CareerBuilder.com. She researches and writes about job search strategy, career management, hiring trends and workplace issues.

SAVE THE DATE! TECH 2008 will be held on Wednesday, May 7.

2007-11-21T08:42:00.000-06:00

Home Legislature Contact Information Committee Members ICE Home Page

SAVE THE DATE! TECH 2008 will be held on Wednesday, May 7.
Submit your application today!
Applications are due January 14, 2008.

What is TECH 2008?For the past seventeen years, public policymakers from around the state have banded together to promote the most comprehensive and diverse demonstration of classroom technology in the Midwest by those who use these technologies on a daily basis -- students and teachers. The result is a student technology showcase that continues to impress state legislators and their constituents from year to year. To learn more about the event, please see last year's Informational Video or Informational Brochure. You may also view last year's program.

Not for ProfitThe TECH 2008 program is a not-for-profit initiative, supported by a broad range of education and business organizations, to increase awareness about classroom technology and the role it plays in helping students prepare to be workers and citizens in an information-based world economy.

Demonstrations for LegislatorsThe TECH 2008 demonstrations will allow lawmakers, business leaders and others to see first hand how technology is used in classrooms all over Illinois. These presentations will not represent "model classrooms" or visions of the future; they will represent what is happening in Illinois public schools today.

Technology is a Powerful Tool in the ClassroomTechnology can be a powerful tool in the classroom to enhance and accelerate student achievement; however, some people don't fully realize the extent to which technology can impact students and teachers. As people better understand what the information age makes possible in the classroom, they realize that if students are to be prepared for the 21st Century, they must have access to all of the latest technologies.

Participating SchoolsAll schools throughout the state of Illinois will be invited to participate in TECH 2008. Schools will be able to apply by November 1, and will be notified regarding the status of their application in January 2008. School teams will be selected to represent a balanced distribution between legislative districts, grade levels and curricular areas. Preference will be given to projects that demonstrated improved teaching and learning through the use of technology.

Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn announces donation of 40 laptops

2007-11-14T18:12:00.000-06:00

Lt. Gov. Quinn announces the donation of 40 laptop computers to the Illinois School for the Deaf – and 40 more for children in the developing world.

(SPRINGFIELD) - On Friday, Nov. 16, at 10:00 a.m., Lt. Governor Pat Quinn will announce that 40 elementary school students at the Illinois School for the Deaf will soon receive brand new, cutting-edge XO laptop computers.

The Lt. Governor’s office is teaming up with the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University to purchase the 40 XO laptops from One Laptop Per Child, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving education everywhere.

And, taking advantage of a limited-time offer to purchase computers through a “Give 1 Get 1” promotion, One Laptop Per Child will match the 40 laptops for Illinois children by sending 40 XO computers to students in developing nations.

MIT Professor Nicholas Negroponte, founder and chairman of One Laptop Per Child, joined Lt. Governor Quinn on Monday to announce the launch of the “Give 1 Get 1” promotion, which offers residents of North America the opportunity to purchase two XO laptops for just $399 – one laptop for the buyer and one for a child in a developing country. The promotion will last until Nov. 26.

“This is an opportunity to bridge the worldwide digital divide as well as the one that exists right here in Illinois,” Quinn said. “Laptop computers are transforming learning in Illinois and throughout the world, and we want to continue to think of innovative ways to get laptops into the hands of children.”

One Laptop Per Child created the powerful, low-cost XO laptop to transform the content and quality of learning in emerging nations. The computer is a compact, durable, energy-efficient machine created especially for children living in the most remote environments to enjoy laptop learning at its best.

And the XO laptop’s innovations do not end with its low-cost appeal or its child-friendly programming. The ENERGY STAR qualified XO laptop consumes just one-tenth of the electricity that a typical laptop uses.

One Laptop Per Child already has pilot projects underway in 14 countries, and the effort is poised to reach hundreds of thousands more students in Rwanda, Haiti, Afghanistan, Mongolia and Cambodia in 2008.

Quinn will be joined by Chris Merrett, director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University, Marybeth Lauderdale, superintendent of the Illinois School for the Deaf, and Fara Harper, a kindergarten teacher at the Illinois School for the Deaf.

Located in Jacksonville, the Illinois School for the Deaf is home to deaf or hard of hearing students from across the state, and offers pre-kindergarten through vocational and college preparatory curriculum.

There is still time for three lucky Illinois third-graders to win an XO laptop!Visit StandingUpForIllinois.org or call the Lt. Governor’s office at 217-782-3734 to learn how to enter an essay contest and win a laptop###

Lt. Governor Quinn announces new essay contest for Illinois third-graders

2007-11-14T18:10:00.000-06:00

Lt. Governor Quinn announces new essay contest for Illinois third-graders,three lucky students will win a personal laptop computer!

(Chicago) - On Monday, Nov. 12, Lt. Governor Pat Quinn announced an opportunity for three Illinois third-graders to win a cutting-edge XO laptop computer.

Joining with MIT Professor Nicholas Negroponte, founder and chairman of One Laptop Per Child, Quinn demonstrated just how easy it is to give a laptop to a student here in Illinois and to a student in a developing country.

In a limited-time offer, One Laptop Per Child is offering a one-of-a-kind charitable campaign – a “Give 1 Get 1” promotion that gives residents of North America an opportunity to purchase two XO laptops

Give 1 Get 1: Closing the Digital Divide

2007-09-25T15:25:00.000-05:00

Americans Get a Laptop, Give One Free to Kids in Developing Countries

By TERI WHITCRAFT and IMAEYEN IBANGA

Sept. 24, 2007 —

It's been dubbed "the Green Machine," and since it was first conceived five years ago, the low-cost laptop has been ridiculed as a gadget and a toy. But American computer makers aren't laughing anymore.

For two weeks in November, the so-called $100 laptop is coming to America, and supporters say the nonprofit organization that makes it called One Laptop Per Child could become one of the largest laptop players in the United States in the next few years.

Some U.S. students have already reaped the benefits of the program. First- and second-graders at King Open School in Cambridge, Mass., are using the computers for a year as part of a pilot program.

"It's so light, and I can pick it up," one little boy said.

"You can use it for your homework," a little girl added.

According to One Laptop Per Child executive Walter Bender, who runs focus groups on the laptop with American children, some kids say it's cooler than a Thinkpad.

"Their daddy's Thinkpad can't be used outdoors in bright sunlight. It can't be dropped. It can't be charged with a solar panel, or a crank on a bicycle," said Bender. "Kids love it."

Give 1 Get 1 for Two Weeks Only

But the coolest thing about the computer may be something the kids in America don't see.

Every time an American orders a laptop, during a two-week period from Nov. 12 to Nov. 26, a kid in a developing country will get one for free it's called the Give 1, Get 1 program.

The total cost to the consumer: $400 for both laptops a portion of which is tax deductible.

"You sign up, and, basically, donate a laptop to a child in another country," Nicholas Negroponte told ABC News. Negroponte, co-founder and director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Media Laboratory, created the nonprofit One Laptop Per Child in 2005.

Digital Dream

The Give 1 Get 1 program, announced today on "Good Morning America," is the culmination of a dream for Negroponte. Since 2005, when he first came up with the idea, he has criss-crossed the globe, trying to convince government leaders to buy the low-cost laptops for their countries' children.

Many countries, like Brazil, Uruguay, Libya, Rwanda, and Thailand, have embraced the program, but poorer countries haven't been able to buy enough laptops to make it economically feasible to manufacture them.

With the Give 1 Get 1 program, Negroponte is counting on the generosity of Americans to help kick-start the program. By buying their own kids a cool new laptop, parents in the United States can help kids in a developing country, thousands of miles away, get a laptop, too.

Not a Luxury

Negroponte's goal is to design, manufacture and distribute laptop computers that are so affordable, that every child in the world will have access to one. His vision is for kids to take the computers home particularly, if their home is a thatched hut and share their newfound knowledge with their entire families.

Each laptop is programmed in the country's language with 1,000 books and other educational software. Pilot programs in countries ranging from Nigeria to Brazil to Uruguay have been successful, according to One Laptop Per Child executives.

Yet, critics argue that the laptop is a luxury, and not an essential need when dealing with the extreme poverty found in many Third World countries.

"If you think of it as a laptop, then it is a luxury," Negroponte said. "But, if you think of it as education, it's not a luxury."

$100 Laptop for $200

From the beginning, Negroponte envisioned selling the laptop for $100 but he's not there yet. Right now, the manufacturing cost runs closer to $200; hence, the $400 cost for two laptops in the Get 1 Give 1 program.

The price is expected to drop as more computers are manufactured, with an ultimate goal of producing 100 million laptops a year. Current projections are that they will reach the $100 per laptop goal by the end of 2009.

Kid-Proof and Desert-Proof

The laptop is designed to be kid-proof, withstanding things like milk spills and drops of up to 5 feet. It's been frozen in refrigerators and heated in ovens at 140 degrees in high humidity.

But it's not just a toy. The laptop was built to last for five years in extreme conditions from the African desert to the heat of a Mumbai summer.

According to Negroponte, there were three crucial elements in designing the laptop.

First, the computer display had to be bright enough to be easily read in bright sunlight.

Second, it had to be very low power, so users could wind it up. The reason was simple: 50 percent of the kids in the world don't have electricity. With this laptop, kids can recharge the battery with hand cranks or solar power.

Third, it had to be fun with video, cameras, a music synthesizer, and games that kids will want to play with.

By giving kids their own laptops, Negroponte believes they will get excited about school and learning. "Our goal is to leverage the children, themselves," he said.

For more information on One Laptop Per Child, go to http://laptop.org.

For reviews of the laptop, Click Here, and Here.

Copyright © 2007 ABC News Internet Ventures

The Ultimate Steal Offers Students Easy Access to Microsoft Office 2007

2007-09-17T16:00:00.000-05:00

Microsoft is giving copies of the ultimate office 2007 for a very low price.

For more info follow this link.

http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/press/2007/sep07/09-12UltimateStealPR.mspx

Office printers 'are health risk'

2007-08-01T15:53:00.000-05:00

By Nick Bryant
BBC News, Sydney

The humble office laser printer can damage lungs in much the same way as smoke particles from cigarettes, a team of Australian scientists has found.

An investigation of a range of printer models showed that almost a third emit potentially dangerous levels of toner into the air.

The Queensland University of Technology scientists have called on ministers to regulate these kinds of emissions.

They say some printers should come with a health warning.

The researchers carried out tests on more than 60 machines.

Almost one-third were found to emit ultra-tiny particles of toner-like material, so small that they can infiltrate the lungs and cause a range of health problems from respiratory irritation to more chronic illnesses.

Conducted in an open-plan office, the test revealed that particle levels increased five-fold during working hours, a rise blamed on printer use.

The problem was worse when new cartridges were used and when graphics and images required higher quantities of toner.

The researchers have called on governments to regulate air quality in offices.

They also want companies to ensure that printers are based in well-ventilated areas so that particles disperse.

Story from BBC NEWS:http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/asia-pacific/6923915.stm

Published: 2007/07/31 10:27:25

GMT© BBC MMVII

Ready for an E-Mail Diet?

2007-07-27T13:24:00.000-05:00

Tory Johnson's Tips to Shrink the Amount of Time and Energy You Spend on E-Mail

By TORY JOHNSON

July 26, 2007 —

Ever feel overwhelmed by e-mail? Does the convenience often seem more like a nuisance?
If so, you're not alone, because the average Outlook business user receives 470 e-mails a week and spends 15 hours dealing with them. By 2009, workers will spend 41 percent of their time reading and responding to e-mails, according to market research firm Radicati Group.

To fight back, some companies, led by advertising giant Kaplan Thaler Group, are going on "e-mail diets" to shrink their daily dose of electronic messages. Other executives have declared e-mail bankruptcy, shutting down their inboxes all together.

From high-profile CEOs to musicians, more professionals are saying no to e-mail. According to several reports, techno musician Moby sent a message to his address list announcing his break from e-mail.

Saying he was done with e-mail because of privacy concerns, New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine announced in a statement, "We'll go back to the 1920s and have direct conversations with people." A venture capitalist made headlines when he said he was so far behind that wiping the inbox clean was the only option.

For the rest of us not ready to cut the cord just yet, there are some simple tips on how to get e-mail under control.

Cut the clutter before it starts. Take yourself off every distribution or mailing list you don't need, which includes everyone you don't instantly read. Be sure to click "no" on the "May we add you to our mailing list" box when registering on any Web site or while shopping online.
Use spam blockers. Talk to your IT department or email provider for help installing and activating spam blockers to limit the amount of junk mail you receive.

Lose multiple accounts. The Radicati Group says e-mail accounts worldwide are growing faster than e-mail users at an average annual rate of 8 percent, which means many of us have more than one e-mail account. Not just one for business and one for personal, but many people have several personal accounts, which adds to the overload. Sign off those extra accounts.

Treat your inbox as a one-stop shop. That means deal with each message once and only once by reading, responding and deleting it at the same time. This means breaking the habit of reading messages and moving on to others before acting. But once you get used to it, the practice is easy. You'll feel more efficient when you're not buried in the e-mail pileup.

Send fewer e-mails. Be part of the solution: Send fewer e-mails and think twice before CCing the whole office. It greatly reduces the number of replies you and others will receive.

And as archaic as it sounds, pick up the phone instead of sending e-mail, especially if the issue is a discussion rather than a bit of information to impart. This saves you time on back-and-forth communiqués and you'll resolve the issue faster. And if you're really daring, you'll get up from your desk to talk face to face instead of sending an e-mail to the person down the hall.

NRN. You've mastered LOL, as in laugh out loud, so now try NRN, as in no reply needed. Use this in e-mails so recipients know they need not reply. And forget for a moment what mom taught you: Office e-mail etiquette doesn't require you to thank someone for his e-mail. If you must, just type "thank you" in the subject line so the recipient can prioritize reading and deleting the e-mail.

Take a time out. For most people, a timeout is more realistic than an outright ban. If doing so during the business week is out of the question because of the nature of your work, try taking a day off on a weekend from both work and personal e-mails.

Maybe your time out is evening hours. Think of it as an e-mail fast. No matter when you do it, be sure to activate your "out of office" message so senders know you're not ignoring them.

Tory Johnson is the workplace contributor for "Good Morning America" and the CEO of Women for Hire. Connect with her at www.womenforhire.com.

Copyright © 2007 ABC News Internet Ventures

TECH 2007 - Sprinfield, Illinois

2007-07-27T13:11:00.000-05:00

ROUTINE COMPUTER MAINTENACE

2007-07-16T13:02:00.000-05:00

ROUTINE COMPUTER MAINTENACE

Cleaning Materials: Windex or another mild ammonia-based cleaner (a little ordinary ammonia in demineralized water works just as well), paper towels or lint-free cloths, a canister of electronics-grade compressed air, and a small static-safe vacuum cleaner.

Case: Use a clean cloth lightly dampened with ammonia cleaner to remove dust, dirt, or stains from the exterior of the PC. Start at the top and work down. Add extra cleaner to remove stubborn stains. Always dampen a clean towel with cleaner. Never spray cleaner directly onto any part of the computer.

Air Intake: Check for accumulations of dust or debris around intakes, or intake filters. Clean away any accumulations from this area, then use your static-free vacuum to clean the intake filter, if possible. Avoid the use of ordinary household vacuum cleaners. Static electricity may be generated by the rush of air along plastic hoses and tubes, which can damage the sensitive electronics in a PC.

Speakers: Use compressed air to gently dust-out the speaker’s openings. Do not insert the long thin air nozzle in the speaker—you can easily puncture the speaker cone and ruin it. Remove the long nozzle and spray directly from the can. Afterward, use a clean cloth lightly dampened with ammonia solution to remove any dirt or stains from the speaker housing.

Keyboard: Attach the long, thin nozzle to the compressed air can and use the air blow through the horizontal gaps between the rows. Be careful. This will kick up a lot of dust, so keep the keyboard away from your face. Use a clean cloth lightly dampened with ammonia solution to remove dirt or stains from the keys and keyboard housing. If any keys seem unresponsive or “sticky”, you can remove the corresponding keycap and spray a little in the key assembly, and gently replace the cap. Do not remove the Enter key or Space Bar. These keys are held in place by metal brackets that are extremely difficult to attach once the key is removed.

U.N. Creates IT Site For Youth

2007-07-16T11:24:00.000-05:00

Reprinted from InformationWeek.com

The United Nations Global Alliance for Information and Communications Technologies and Development (GAID) launched a Web site today for youth.
The site will encourage young people to discuss how technology can improve education, entrepreneurship, governance, and health. The launch comes ahead of a forum for youth planned for Sept. 24-26 in Geneva.

GAID expects 600 participants and attendees at “Youth and ICT for Development: Youth and ICT as Agents of Change.” The alliance hopes to encourage young people to interact with policymakers, as well as private business and community leaders, to explore ways that information and communications technology can empower youth around the world.
Before the event, people can find information and updates about the forum, check out a related blog, and begin discussions.

“The blog will allow young people to discuss the use of ICT in these fields and address specific cases, lessons learned, protagonists, and policies,” GAID executive director Sarbuland Khan said in a prepared statement. “Experts from various sectors will moderate the blog and will be raising difficult questions or highlight[ing] controversial issues in order to engage readers and provoke them to respond with their position and to ask further questions.”
Khan said that organizers will listen to feedback, which could help with the planning of panels and workshops.

The forum is organized by GAID and the International Telecommunication Union, in partnership with the U.N. Department of Economic and Social Affairs, International Labour Organization, UNESCO, World Health Organization, U.N. Population Fund, U.N. Human Settlements Program, and civil society organizations.

Last year, the U.N. held a digital inclusion forum.

Tech Crew Effective Models

2007-07-05T14:24:00.000-05:00

Taylor School is definitely interested in the implementation of the Tech Crew Program for 2007-2008. Are there effective models of implementation that have worked well in other schools? I am concerned about a possible scheduling problem.

Hello

2007-07-05T13:10:00.000-05:00

My name is Frankie. I am a volunteer for the TechCrew program. I have been working with the TechCrew since its first year extablished in CPS. Alongside Victor we managed to succesfully implement the program at Kelly High School.While teaching the students how to fix computers the program also has helped many students with their education attendance and behavior. If you have any questions about the program or you need help with anything feel free to contact me.

FLASHPOINT: The Academy of Digital Media Arts and Sciences

2007-07-01T16:59:00.000-05:00

Dear Parents/Students/Teachers /Counselors

Thank you for your interest in Flashpoint, The Academy of Digital Media Arts and Sciences. Flashpoint will forever change the face of education in Chicago. And we want you to be there when it happens.

So it is with great pride and anticipation that we invite you to our upcoming Private Group Tour.

Dates: Saturday, July 14th
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: 28 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL (Clark & Washington) RSVP: bruce.montgomery@flashpointacademy.com or call 773-410-0608

Meet us at 10 a.m. sharp at the main building of the Flashpoint Digital Campus, at 28 North Clark, Chicago, steps from Daley Plaza and the inspired creativity of the Chicago Picasso, where the tour will begin.

Flashpoint's program shapes young minds into digital media professionals. But first we must shape our space into a cutting-edge platform for digital education. View the school as we begin construction and open your mind to the possibilities.

After you see the classroom space, we will provide transportation to our 32,000 sq ft state-of-the-art digital media production complex, located in the West Loop. Because at Flashpoint, the classroom is only the beginning. Once the school opens, students can look forward to spending half their day working and learning hands-on, on multiple soundstages, and in video edit suites, audio mixing rooms and graphic design bays.

Whether you're a prospective student, intrigued parent or curious teacher or counselor, all are encouraged to see the future in the making at Flashpoint's Private Group Tour.

Bruce Eric Montgomery
Admissions & Industry Relations
773-410-0608
http://www.flashpointacademy.com

Flashpoint brain trust well-schooled in digital media

2007-07-01T16:56:00.000-05:00

March 5, 2007

BY BRAD SPIRRISON Sun-Times Columnist

Entry level video-game developers earn fatter paychecks than many experienced accountants, health care professionals and (gulp) journalists. While many of us are not in the position to press the vocational reset button, today's teenagers weaned on digital media have educational and employment options that barely existed even half a generation ago.

"We are training kids today with things we did not even know yesterday, and we are building schools for things we won't know until tomorrow," explained Howard Tullman, serial entrepreneur, new media impresario and recently appointed chairman of Flashpoint Academy.

Beginning this September, Flashpoint will offer two-year training programs for high school graduates interested in pursuing careers in game development, computer animation, film and recording arts. The 40-hour-per-week program will include classroom instruction in the Loop at 28 N. Clark as well as applied training at a soundstage a few blocks northwest of the United Center. Approximately 400 students are expected to enroll this fall with plans to accommodate up to 1,000 in the coming years. Annual tuition is $25,000.

"Students will be trained on real world stuff," said Flashpoint founder and Chief Executive Ric Landry, previously of Lake Forest-based early stage investment firm MBC Global. "Most teaching is based on an 18th century model. But there is so much information flow now that you can learn more just standing around than I learned going to high school."

Landry, 60, first pondered the idea of a digital media academy eight years ago while his son was studying film and sound at Columbia College. Last year, as the video game industry grew to $30 billion worldwide, Landry pointed and clicked his way to a business plan. A few weeks ago, Jim Hoesley of Credit Suisse First Boston introduced Landry to Tullman, now a significant investor. They are in the process of raising a seven-figure investment round.

Tullman, 61, founded CCC Information Systems in 1980, and has spent the last 15 years conceiving, funding and directing several companies in the new media and education industries. His credits include producing CD-ROM games based on the Where's Waldo? series and Arnold Schwarzenegger's film Eraser, as well as early Web sites for Downbeat and Rolling Stone magazines.

More recently, Tullman saved culinary institute Kendall College from financial ruin and serves as chairman of the Princeton Review and Experiencia Inc. Experiencia operates a learning center focusing on civics and science for elementary school students, and is a block from Kendall at the corner of Halstead and Chicago Avenue.

Regarding his Flashpoint investment, Tullman said, "In 24 months we can create people with portfolios who can hit the ground running, and make compensation levels that are four and five times what a typical liberal arts college graduate will make. If you had to pick the leading industries for the next 10 years, this is where you put your money."

Top 10 Best Practices Summary from Educator’s Conference 2007

2007-06-26T13:28:00.000-05:00

The following is a basic summary of the TOP 10! Best Practices for middle and high school MOUSE Squads that resulted from the very productive breakout groups at the end of the day at Wednesday’s conference. It is interesting that each grade level ended up with exactly 10! Also note that there are 3 best practices that middle and high school have in common. These are listed at the end as “top overall” best practices.

Thanks to everyone who participated in sharing these great tips, and others, for successful MOUSE Squads!

TOP 10 MIDDLE SCHOOL MOUSE Squad BEST PRACTICES

1. Be flexible with scheduling when possible, but “Make it work for you!” –do whatever it takes for the FA to be able to make the program successful.
2. Provide incentives like pizza parties, space, t-shirts etc.
3. Raise money is necessary to provide special opportunities such as an expo trip, a show, etc.(hold bake sales, for example)
4. Keep a file on each student.
5. Provide shared responsibility among squad members and the FA…and give kids REAL responsibilities and projects!
6. Have an organized, functional ticket tracking system.
7. Hold meetings before and after school.
8. Do MOUSE Squad as a club.
9. Collaborate using video conferencing (iSquad) if possible.
10. Tap into parent association funds!

Top 10 HIGH SCHOOL MOUSE Squad BEST PRACTICES

1. Administrative support, sufficient time and dedicated faculty advisor.
2. Make sure FA has dedicated time to devote to MOUSE Squad.
3. Provide PD for the school’s teachers about how to utilize MOUSE Squad.
4. Ask students to have a hand in choosing fellow squad members, and give the new members a probationary period.
5. Provide student incentives (esp. pay).
6. Hold weekly meetings! this improves communication among squad members a nd allows them to discuss what needs to be done in the future.
7. Use a buddy system for kids answering calls and for training one another. Senior members pair up with new members, for example.
8. Provide a professional atmosphere,…such things as a dedicated meeting area.
9. Communicate and demonstrate! (which involves “proving” the worth of the squad)
10. Set up clear expectations and goals!

Top OVERALL MOUSE Squad Best Practices

1. Provide incentives.
2. Hold weekly meetings.
3. Give students real responsibilites.