Explains the need for quality educational technology in our schools an
d notes the contributions of existing technology in improving educatio
n. Describes the potential that telecommunications network technology
holds for revitalizing American education. Outlines the major federal
programs that provide policy guidance and funding assistance for educa
tional institutions to access and contribute to the evolving National
Information Infrastructure (NII), and summarizes federal activities to
date. In particular, describes the relevant experiences of the first
year of the Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistan
ce program (TIIAP) which is part of the National Telecommunications an
d Information Administration (NTIA) at the Department of Commerce. Con
tact information for all federal Programs is provided as well.