Date: November 9, 2006
To: Superintendents or Administrators of Districts, County Offices of Education, State Special Schools, Public School Districts and/or Direct-Funded Charter Schools with Schools that May be Eligible to Receive Benefits from the Settlement Agreement between Microsoft Corporation and California Consumers
From: Barbara E. Thalacker, Ed.D., Administrator, Education Technology Office
Important Clarification Concerning Eligible Technology Products and Services
Earlier this year the California Department of Education (CDE) provided the California Technology Assistance Projects (CTAP) with a presentation template that used language taken directly from the Settlement Agreement that created this program. CTAP, and other entities, have used this template for their workshops. Unfortunately, some recent communications from the field have brought to our attention that the presentations may have been misinterpreted as endorsements of particular companies that provide technology products or services under the Ed Tech K-12 Voucher Program.
The CDE and CTAP want to be absolutely clear that they do not endorse any particular software publisher, hardware manufacturer or other provider of eligible products and services. The CDE and CTAP do not endorse any particular computer operating system platform. School districts are urged to consider all vendors that provide eligible services and products and choose the services, hardware, and software that they believe make the most sense as part of their technology plan and provide the most value for the price that is charged. School districts are also reminded that no vendor’s products and services are automatically eligible for reimbursement. Any products and services that fall within the categories specified in the Settlement Agreement qualify for reimbursement regardless of the identity of the vendor that provides them. Keep in mind that professional development and information technology support service providers also must be on the approved provider list.
If you have any questions on this communication, contact the Education Technology Office, edtech@cde.ca.gov or 916-323-5715.
1430 N Street
Sacramento, CA 95814