Welcome to TECH 2008

Important Cancellation Notice to the TECH 2008 Accepted Schools:

It is with great regret to inform you that the TECH 2008 planning committee has voted to cancel TECH 2008 this year. Due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control (major renovations happening at the Capitol building this spring), we are unable to find enough space for this event, and feel we would not be able to offer the high quality experience we have for the last 17 years.

We regret that this event must be canceled, however, we wish to convey a great amount of respect we have for all involved, and gratitude for the efforts expended in preparing for this event.

The TECH 2008 committee will contact the legislators informing them of this cancellation, but encourage school teams to invite legislators to their schools for a first-hand look at how technology is being used to enhance learning.

Again, thank you for your efforts. We hope you will consider applying to participate in TECH 2009 when schools will demonstrate in the newly renovated hallways of the Capitol building.

Respectfully,

Phil Lacey, TECH 2008 Co-chair, David Biby, TECH 2008 Co-chair, & the TECH 2008 committee members

What is TECH 2008?
For the past seventeen years, public policymakers from around the state have banded together to promote the most comprehensive and diverse demonstration of classroom technology in the Midwest by those who use these technologies on a daily basis -- students and teachers. The result is a student technology showcase that continues to impress state legislators and their constituents from year to year. To learn more about the event, please see last year's Informational Video or Informational Brochure. You may also view last year's program.

Not for Profit
The TECH 2008 program is a not-for-profit initiative, supported by a broad range of education and business organizations, to increase awareness about classroom technology and the role it plays in helping students prepare to be workers and citizens in an information-based world economy.

Demonstrations for Legislators
The TECH 2008 demonstrations will allow lawmakers, business leaders and others to see first hand how technology is used in classrooms all over Illinois. These presentations will not represent "model classrooms" or visions of the future; they will represent what is happening in Illinois public schools today.

Technology is a Powerful Tool in the Classroom
Technology can be a powerful tool in the classroom to enhance and accelerate student achievement; however, some people don't fully realize the extent to which technology can impact students and teachers. As people better understand what the information age makes possible in the classroom, they realize that if students are to be prepared for the 21st Century, they must have access to all of the latest technologies.

Participating Schools
All schools throughout the state of Illinois will be invited to participate in TECH 2008. Schools will be able to apply by November 1, and will be notified regarding the status of their application in January 2008. School teams will be selected to represent a balanced distribution between legislative districts, grade levels and curricular areas. Preference will be given to projects that demonstrated improved teaching and learning through the use of technology.