Getting Students Up to Speed in Milwaukee

The Milwaukee public school system used the federal E-rate program to construct an advanced broadband network for its schools -- 55 of which have access to two-way video. The schools are utilizing the interactivity to augment learning by partnering with outside groups:

• A program called Classes and Courtrooms brings judges and middle school social studies students together to discuss how the court system works.
• Discovery World, a local community based organization, offers math and science programs.
• Former students who are now in college connect with current high school students to discuss life after high school.

Rather than directing students to websites, the interactivity presents real time information that brings classroom lessons to life. Milwaukee also is using the technology for administrative and training purposes.