Some Illinois seventh graders soon may use laptops instead of notebooks in school.

HB 5244, or the I-Connect Computer Tech Act, is a volunteer program that offers schools the tools to provide laptop computers to seventh grade students for classroom work.

Classroom work

In this bill, first proposed by Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn, schools will make a stronger push for computer-classroom integration by allowing all students to utilize a laptop for their classroom work.

The bill will cost up to $5,265,000 that will cover the cost of the laptops, software and tech support and will be funded by the State School Board budget, according to Susanne Hack, legislative council for Quinn’s office.

Many legislatures feel it is important for children to have increased exposure to technology in order to excel in life and the work place.

“It is essential for our young people to learn how to use computers,” said Illinois Rep. Constance A. Howard (D-Chicago). “We can’t leave our children on the wrong side of the technological divide.”

Fiscal issues

Despite I-Connect’s advantages, fiscal problems are a primary worry for schools and legislatures.

Rep. Bob Pritchard (R-Hinkley) supports the bill on philosophical grounds, but abstained from the vote due to problems with the fiscal aspect of the bill. He said there are many long-term issues which should be resolved before the legislation proceeds.

“Philosophically it is a good idea, but because of our lack of funding, it might not be a wise idea,” he said. “Funding would have to come out of the State Board of Education Budget, which would take away from other important programs.”

Other assembly members expressed similar sentiment.

“There are a lot of good programs out there, but we need to sort out our priorities,” said Rep. Ron A. Wait (R-Belvidere).

Maintenance a concern

Local schools also voiced support for this legislation, but are concerned about unforeseen maintenance

and replacement costs associated with the utilization of laptops.

“There would definitely be an advantage to having laptops available for every student. However, the cost for maintenance and repair might place a serious strain on schools,” said Jane Dargatz, principal of Sycamore Middle School.

Roger Scott, principal of Huntley Middle School in DeKalb, agrees.

“Laptops can be another important tool for schools to use,” he said. “Our school has had success with our two computer labs and our laptop mobile station. Nevertheless, maintaining and repairing broken laptops can place an undue burden on schools.”

Quinn’s office stays positive

Although there may be risks involved with long-term continuation of the program, Quinn’s office remains optimistic about this endeavor.

“This program is voluntary and completely funded,” Hack said. “Priority will be given to schools with at least 40 percent low-income students, but this is a statewide program and two schools from every regional office of education will participate. All they need to do is apply.”