Seize laptop opportunity

A unique idea was introduced by Gov. Angus King in the 119th Legislature – laptops for all seventh-grade students and teachers in Maine. The focus of this initiative was not to teach technology but to use technology for learning in all areas of the curriculum.

This is not exactly a new or novel idea. Other states have attempted some part of this idea but Maine has moved ahead because there is a plan in place. This plan is based on equity that provides equal access to learning technology for all students, teacher training before implementation, content focus and preparation in advance for sustainable technology resources. The plan was adopted by the 120th Legislature and has moved forward with nine pilot sites identified, around the state, to be used for observation.

The laptop initiative started out with fifty million dollars in one time money. Fifteen million more was to be raised through private contributions. The vision was to use the interest on this money to keep the program running into perpetuity while the principle would remain intact. Twenty million, plus $3 million in already earned interest, was siphoned off by the legislature to cover other areas of concern. This interest was meant to pay for the laptop implementation.

In order to balance the supplemental state budget, another five million was taken. With the twenty-five million remaining, the program is still viable for the initial four-year phase for middle school. Money to provide for professional development and teacher training is assured through a $1 million grant from the Gates Foundation. More investors are now on board and have made pledges that will sustain the initiative with financial support.

The laptops will be distributed and controlled by the schools and will initially be used only at school. If there is damage or failure with machines, there will be spare devices for back-up and the Apple Care Warranty will take care of the repair. Filtering software will be provided by the Apple contract. Filtering will be provided by the University of Maine’s UNET at the point that the network connects to the Internet via the Maine School Library Network. Filtering for games and music will be provided with the devices.

There have been misconceptions surrounding the new technology initiative being implemented in Maine schools. Some people have questioned the practicality and worth of such a program. Seventh- grade students answer this best. Here is what they wrote in their letters to me as a legislator:

“Students will want to learn and research.”

“It would prepare us for technology related jobs.”

“Students will have equal access to a computer.”

“Laptops will give learning disabled students a chance.”

“I would be so careful of what I am really doing.”

“Young people might be more likely to stay in Maine to live and work.”

“It would give us a better education all around.”

“We wouldn’t have to go to the computer lab and wait for a long time to work.”

“The one thing that people seem to think is a problem is that we are too irresponsible to handle the laptops. I for one am deeply offended by this.”

“Why would we break it? We know it is expensive and we would be giving up a great learning tool if we didn’t take care of it.”

An incredible opportunity has been offered the students in Maine schools. If we don’t take advantage of this huge commitment by Apple we will be leaving our teachers and students behind. This bargain with Apple is available now, not later.

The use of technology in the classroom is no longer in the future. Should we wait for tomorrow when the future is now?

Mabel J. Desmond, D-Mapleton, represents House District 146.