Joe’s Non-Netbook Video Demonstrates Need for District Purchasing Flexibility for Technology
This video, Joe’s Non-Netbook, shows how our kids learn differently today. A book is NO LONGER enough. Our schools know that and want more. To reach Florida’s students and to prepare them for bright futures in the 21st century, global economy, we must continue to innovate and update our teaching tools.
HB 623 and language in a Florida House budget conforming bill that is part of the House/Senate budget conference, allows districts the flexibility to use a portion of existing funds in the Instructional Materials categorical to purchase hardware for instructional purposes. The proposal does not reduce the amount of money the fund has dedicated to purchasing textbooks (50% of the fund must be used to purchase “adopted” materials/textbooks). Technology/Hardware may only be purchased to access content (not for administrative purposes).
The proposal does NOT contain a mandate for districts to change anything. Many districts will likely purchase textbooks and materials in the exact same manner as today; those that are ready for it may purchase some technology along with content.
Broad Coalition of Support
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- Foundation for Florida’s Future
- Northeast Florida Educational Consortium (Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Flagler, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Nassau, Putnam, Suwannee, Union, PK Yonge DRS, Florida School for the Deaf and Blind)
- School districts including (but not limited to): Hillsborough, St. Johns, Marion, Orange, Broward, Flagler, Miami Dade, Lee
- Panhandle Area Education Consortium (Calhoun, Gadsden, Jackson, Madison, Walton, FSU Schools, Gulf, Jefferson, Taylor, Washington, Franklin, Holmes, Liberty, Wakulla)
- Florida Chamber of Commerce
- Associated Industries of Florida
- TechNet
- Technology Education Coalition
Contact: Ryan Banfill, (850) 222-1996
