I. Goals

"Our schools are functioning under a model appropriate
for the Industrial Age, not the Information Age."
-- Dr. Beverly L. Hall, State District School Superintendent, Newark

Defining a technology model and the related costs of providing computers and advanced telecommunications access to New Jersey K-12 schools and public libraries are critical steps in insuring that New Jersey remains competitive in business and education, the ultimate objective of this plan.

To achieve this objective, the Ratepayer Advocate has determined that a coordinated approach must be developed before the year 2000 to provide all New Jersey residents with access to technology-based learning tools. The key to the success of this approach will be long-term funding of a comprehensive and realistically priced model. The cost model and funding approaches described in this report are intended to meet this objective and to:

• Provide all K-12 public schools with a common base of cost-effective technology, equipment and services to provide access to the Internet, e-mail and distance learning opportunities;
  
• Provide all K-12 public and non-public schools with discounted tariff service charges for use of advanced telecommunications services. For informational purposes, this report also includes cost data regarding equipment and services for not-for-profit schools;
  
• Provide all public libraries with cost-effective technology, equipment and services to provide access to the Internet with discounted tariff service charges and similar discounts;
  
• Ensure ongoing technology training and support for education and library professionals;
  
• Support the policy recommendations of the Department of Education's Plan for Educational Technology in New Jersey;
  
• Encourage accelerated installation of broadband telecommunications to all K-12 schools and public libraries by all telecommunication and CATV companies providing services in the state;
  
• Minimize the need for additional state or local funds by varied means discussed below, including making maximum use of all federal technology funds.
  
• Encourage public-private partnerships, especially among telecommunications companies and school districts.

These goals are consistent with the State's commitment to providing equity in all aspects of education and information access and to ensure that all students develop skills in the use of information and up-to-date educational technology. When these goals are met, New Jersey will rank among the nation's leaders in providing the infrastructure, information access and learning environment deemed so critical to supporting a productive and enriched education and business environment.

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