To be commended, the Birmingham School Board piloted a program in which 1,000 XO laptop computers were to be part of the Glen Iris Elementary School. Teachers are currently being trained on how to teach students how to use the machines and the program is "making progress".

There is only one problem. The existing Internet connectivity at Glen Iris wouldn't handle the 1,000 laptops. BUT at an additional $300 a month the problem should be fixed. To note, additions to the software on each of the 1,000 laptops was made for them to be "easier" for grade school children to use.

Now, as always, I think we need to ask ourselves a question or two.
How can we expect to put a laptop in the hands of every child when we have to:

• Pay for Internet connectivity as it is interesting to note that most free Internet services are not being deployed as once expected.


• Pay for additional consulting services to make these laptops usable.

Take a look at the XO laptop. It's a great idea and one I would suggest we get involved with.