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KAN-ED AWARDS NEARLY $3 MILLION TO ENHANCE DISTANCE LEARNING FACILITIES THROUGH TECHNOLOGY GRANTS

Topeka, Kan. (July 21, 2004) – Kan-ed, Kansas’ technology networking initiative, is pleased to announce that more than 150 Kansas K-12 schools, colleges, libraries and hospitals, in 74 counties statewide, have been awarded nearly $3 million through its Enhancing Technology Grant Program (ETGP) to upgrade distance learning capabilities. Kan-ed’s grant program focuses on converting older video conferencing technologies to H.323, or Internet Protocol based video conferencing. H.323 is a standard that defines how real time multimedia communications move across packet-based networks. It enables users to participate in advanced point-to-point and scheduled videoconference applications.

"Because Kan-ed has managed its finances wisely, we were able to expand the grant program for this year only," said Brad Williams, Kansas Board of Regents Director of Information Technology. "This type of funding support and technology has real-world application and impact – it will allow a student in northwest Kansas to take a Russian language class offered only in eastern Kansas regardless of application, or allow for a remote telemedicine consultation and diagnosis from a hospital in Kansas City to a sick child in a remote rural location."

Kan-ed member institutions were eligible to apply for ETGP funding. Awards, in amounts up to $25,000, were based on completeness of application, relationship of application to the Kan-ed mission and date of submission. The program offered two priority levels. Priority one recipients include those converting from H.320 (ISDN) or other technology such as MPEG or JPEG to the H.323 format. Priority two recipients include those purchasing new equipment or upgrades or modifications to current H.323 compatible equipment.

"Kan-ed recognizes our world is getting smaller through technology and we’re excited to offer Kansans increased educational opportunities because of it," said Director of Kan-ed Hal Gardner. "These funds will assist our members with technology that they can use to connect to the Kan-ed network." Kan-ed will provide another limited ETGP starting in January 2005.

About Kan-ed: Kan-ed was created by an act of the Kansas Legislature, signed into law by Governor Graves on April 20, 2001, and funded in January 2003. Kan-ed is a division of the Kansas Board of Regents. To help give Kansas a competitive advantage in the global marketplace, Kan-ed established three main objectives: First, it will build a private, secure network to which members (Kansas hospitals, K-12 schools, libraries, and higher education institutions) can connect for access to high-speed content and services and a stable platform for video conferencing and distance learning. Second, Kan-ed will provide members with subsidies to help reduce their fees for Internet 1 (commercial Internet) access from local providers. Kan-ed does not compete with local Internet service providers. Enhancing Technology Grants are also available to help members purchase equipment and services to connect to the Kan-ed network. Third, Kan-ed seeks quality content and services that enhance the private network and that Kan-ed members can utilize through their commercial or private Internet connection. The organization’s web site is www.kan-ed.org. For more information about Kan-ed or the technology grant program, please contact Brad Williams at 785-296-1862 or bwilliams@ksbor.org.

Complete listing of recipients by county (228 K)