Technology Grants for Supporting Education?

citking asks: "I work as one of 12 micro computer technicians for the Madison School District, the second-largest in the state of Wisconsin, and we have a problem: Our support equipment, namely laptops and diagnostic hardware, is falling dangerously behind the times even as our schools receive top of the line technology sponsored mostly by private grants and donations. Our technology budget is small and is being cut back every year, so having the district buy us new laptops is out of the question. I wouldn't mind applying for a grant to cover most, if not all, of the cost of new equipment, but any grants I see directed at education are all directed toward teachers' projects. Are there any grant programs available for support positions in the public sector? If not, how do other support people in the public sector struggle to keep up with low budgets and outdated equipment?"

Re:Follow the money trail...

[dasunt]

It's much easier to cry "Our students are suffering because the computers are out of date", than it is to cry "Our teachers are under paid".

Last time I checked, the average teacher's pay was about the same as the average pay for a college graduate (which would be a middle-class income).

I think its easier to cry "Our teachers are under paid" than it is to cry "Blame the parents" and "blame the students".

Thanks...

[citking]

...for the suggestions. I'll certainly try to get the grants to incorporate the required materials to support the gifts they give us. I think most people will be understanding when they look at what we need and why we need it. Thanks again for the suggestions, and by all means, keep 'em coming if you get any more ideas.