Funding for distance learning may not go the distance in N.J.

The use of technology in classrooms has grown quickly in New Jersey, largely due to dedicated state aid over the last five years – about $40 per student, some $59 million for 2001-2002. Funds are available to both public and private schools.

But the program ends this year, and could easily fall victim to the state’s revenue shortfall. Educators say eliminating the funds would be shortsighted, like buying a car, then cutting off the money to buy gas and make repairs.