Crapo Sends Senate Computers To Idaho Schools

Washington, DC â?? Twenty-five U.S. Senate computers are on their way to five Idaho public schools this week, courtesy of Idaho Senator Mike Crapo and the Senate â??Computers for Schoolsâ?? program. The program helps public schools take advantage of current technology by channeling excess federal computer equipment to public schools. â??Technological training has become an essential part of our education system,â?? Crapo said. â??Computer skills are increasingly necessary in a changing economy. Placing these computers in Idaho schools gives students access to a vital tool, and better prepares them to compete and contribute in a complex job market.â??Whittier Elementary in Boise, Farmin-Stidwell Elementary in Sandpoint, Rockland School in Rockland, Orofino High School in Orofino, and Van Buren Elementary in Caldwell will each receive five computers through the program. The schools were selected based on need, using Title 1 criteria. The Legislative Branch Appropriations Act of 1997 authorized the Senate to participate in the program, which allows the U.S. Senate Sergeant at Arms (SAA) to transfer educationally useful surplus equipment to public schools. The computers, which the Senate no longer uses due to routine equipment upgrades, remain in excellent condition and are ideal for use in public schools.The SAA notifies Senators on a seniority basis and asks if they wish to participate in the program. The Senators use a list of public schools in their home state who have registered with the program to finalize their awards. The SAA, in conjunction with UPS, provides shipping of the computers to the selected schools. Schools interested in participating in the program may register on the GSA website: http://www.computers.fed.gov.###