When it does work, it's a great communication tool, Matthews said. Now, that's not the case. Even with a one-time grant, server support, software and development tools, schools still require a great deal of support to make a network work. Then again, teacher resources often are stretched to the breaking point. But individual teachers still must spend time, often their own, updating their Web pages and answering e-mail.
Technology is an odd thing.
Even schools with fantastic technology aren't necessarily using it. It's not yet a live, breathing, dynamic representation of who they are. The AIU's Morgan is equally philosophical about the CBN program's overall pace of acceptance. Nevertheless, the AIU is looking for the means to continue funding CBN for a second year for schools that can't pay for Lightspan on their own. That's a hope shared at Regency Park Elementary, where administrators hope for another year of funding.