The U.S. Department of Education recently posted the following notice about applications for technology grants, which are available to consortia composed of school districts and community partners such as museums. Andy Finch American Association of Museums [log in to unmask] Technology Innovation Challenge Grants (Federal Register: December 22, 1998 [CFDA No. 84.303A]) ******************************************************************* Purpose of Program: The Technology Innovation Challenge Grant Program provides grants to consortia that are working to improve & expand new applications of technology to strengthen school reform efforts, improve student achievement, & provide for sustained professional development of teachers, administrators, & school library media personnel. Eligible Applicants: Only consortia may receive grants under this program. A consortium must include at least one local educational agency (LEA) with a high percentage or number of children living below the poverty line. A consortium may also include other LEAs, private schools, State educational agencies, institutions of higher education, businesses, academic content experts, software designers, museums, libraries, & other appropriate entities. Applications Available: January 12, 1999. Deadline for Receipt of Applications: March 12, 1999. Estimated Available Funds: $22,000,000. Estimated Range of Awards: $500,000-$2,000,000 per year. Estimated Average Size of Awards: $1,000,000 per year. Maximum Award: The Secretary will not consider an application that proposes a budget exceeding $2,000,000 for any one of the 12- month budget periods. Estimated Number of Awards: 22. For Applications or Information Contact: For applications, telephone 1-800-USA-LEARN (1-800-872-5327) or fax requests to (202) 208-4042. The application package will be available from the Technology Innovation Challenge Grant web site at: http://www.ed.gov/Technology/chalgrnt.html Additional Information: Applicable regulations, selection criteria, contacts, & other information are available in the federal register notice. Additional information is available online at: www.ed.gov/legislation/FedRegister/announcements/1998-4/122298b.html