Stamp that one unacceptable. Schools are now much more savvy and realize they must offer something in return. Industry demands smart workers and smart consumers and is sensitive to having new products succeed. Schools need private sector partners and can propose having teachers, students and administrators validate new products. This can get schools accustomed to thinking nothing stays the same and to being comfortable with looking at unique products with anticipation, not fear.
Successful partnerships mean schools can keep current more easily as well.
We attempted to explain the benefits of wide area networks, especially e-mail, to everyone from our board to classroom teachers with little effect. Even though it was a strain on our budget, we elected to give everyone in the district a free e-mail account, with the proviso they supply the equipment. Then as budget permitted, we supplied all the board, faculty and staff with laptops. If teachers feel they can control just a piece of the change process, they have come a long way. The first part requires teachers to understand their own fear, frustration and yes, even anger at not being successful immediately with their initial attempts.