Distance Learning: Wiring the Public Schools Act Exposed

Distance Learning: Wiring the Public Schools Act was included in the 1995 ALEC Sourcebook of American State Legislation. ALEC has attempted to distance itself from this piece of legislation after the launch of ALECexposed.org in 2011, but it has done nothing to get it repealed in the states where it previously pushed for it to be made into law.

ALEC Bill Text

Summary

The potential benefits are significant, and can be achieved without major new commitments of tax funds. Legislation may be needed to establish a state distance learning policy, provide distance learning teacher certification, retrofit old classrooms, and provide technology for new classrooms.

Model Legislation

Section 1. {Title.}

This Act may be cited as Distance Learning: Wiring the Public Schools Act.

Section 2. {Public policy purpose.}

(A) It is state policy that all students in the state, regardless of economic or geographic status, deserve the educational benefits offered by distance learning through state-of-the-art technology.

(B) The state recognizes that distance learning can enhance the educational opportunities for all schools, especially those with unique needs.

(C) The state also recognizes the obligation to utilize the cost- efficient opportunity of new building and renovation of schools to install wiring in education facilities, and to avoid costly independent retro fitting at a later time.

Section 3. {Definitions.}

In this Act, the following words have the meanings indicated.

(A) “Distance learning” means the transmission of educational information and interaction of geographically dispersed individuals or groups through a single medium or a combination of audio, video, and data.

(B) “Major renovation” means the reconstruction or rehabilitation of a school building during which the renovation creates a cost-efficient opportunity to install wiring and other equipment necessary for the implementation of distance learning.

(C) “Wiring” means copper, coaxial, fiber optic, or any other cabling that has the capabilities of signal conveyance.

Section 4. {Statement of purpose.}

(A) At the time that a school district is developing a plan for the construction of a new school or for a major renovation of an existing school, the school district shall seriously consider the cost efficient inclusion of wiring and other equipment necessary for distance learning.

(B) The renovation plan shall include:

(1) Consultation with the telecommunication hardware and service providers to determine options available to the schools which shall be documented in the plan;

(2) A listing of existing distance learning programs which they may join;

(3) The costs of the wiring and other equipment necessary for distance learning.

Section 5. {Severability clause.}

Section 6. {Repealer clause.}

Section 7. {Effective date.}