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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates/Conflicts with/Companion to/Relates to

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

State Department of Public Education (SDE)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Bill 158 appropriates $175.0 from the general fund to SDE for the purpose of funding the adventures in supercomputing program. The program shall include a full-time statewide coordinator, provide for planning of expositions and workshops, maintenance of an Internet server and provide curricular support.

Significant Issues

According to SDE, this program has been supported with federal funds and focuses on mathematics and science applications using technology.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

This bill appropriates $175.0 from the general fund to SDE for expenditure in FY2000. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of fiscal year 2000 shall revert to the general fund.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

SDE indicates that current staff could accomplish the additional duties required in this bill which include identification of the state coordinator and administration of the funds.

School districts are required to prepare a technology plan that identifies the professional development needs of teachers.

CTF/njw