IDAHO — The U.S. Department of Education is inviting rural high schools to take part in a nationwide technology challenge called the Rural Tech Project.
The open innovation challenge invites the schools to propose technology education programs that use competency-based distance learning.
The idea is to give teachers the resources to create technology education programs customized specifically for their area.
The challenge will be conducted in two phases.
"During Phase 1, all eligible organizations will be invited to submit a program proposal for competency-based technology education using distance learning," the website explains. "Judges will recommend up to five finalists to progress to Phase 2, a two-year community implementation period. At the end of Phase 2, a judging panel will recommend one grand-prize winner."
According to the website, up to five finalists will each receive an equal share of the $500,000 Phase 1 cash prize pool and progress to Phase 2. In Phase 2, finalists will receive personalized support to plan, run, refine, and report on their programs. At the end of Phase 2, one grand-prize winner will receive a $100,000 cash prize.
