With this in mind, Gainesville City Schools has embarked on a Laptop Initiative for the upcoming 2006-2007 school year. Our initiative differs greatly from many others in that it is the students and their families that own the computers, Gainesville City Schools is never the financial agent nor has ownership in any way. What Gainesville City Schools will provide is complete 802.11g wireless networking coverage over the entire Gainesville High School campus, covering both indoor and outdoor areas. Also, classroom instruction will be differentiated to benefit any student who does have a laptop in the classroom, yet not penalize those who do not. Also, textbooks on CD or for download will be made available as they are provided by the publishers. Basically, the school system will provide a laptop friendly environment for student/family owned laptop computers and helpful direction on purchasing an appropriate laptop if the purchaser desires.

This program should not be considered mandatory in any way! Rather, it should be considered a great opportunity for students and their families alike.

The Laptop Initiative will:

Provide equitable access to technology for all students Strengthen the digital link between home and school Engage students in learning Enhance teacher instruction Shape the digital world of communication for the total community

Please note that NO funding for this initiative will be taken from city, state or federal taxes or from SPLOST funds. Families will be responsible for funding each of their own child's laptops. Families who meet federal free and reduced lunch requirements will be able to apply for funding assistance. All financial agreements will be between the family and the computer company. Gainesville City Schools will not serve as the funding agent.

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