WASHINGTON, June 30 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 500 educators from 48 states and territories took part in a once in a lifetime event during the 30th Annual National Education and Computing Conference. On Tuesday, June 30, participants met with their US Congressional delegations - including 91 senators and 207 representatives - to discuss the importance of educational technology programs and funding.

These Hill visitors expressed great concern about the Obama Administration's proposal to reduce Enhancing Education Through Technology (EETT) program funding in 2010 by as much as 63 percent. As classrooms are moving towards technology-rich learning environments, educators are working tirelessly to ensure program funding is adequately provided to meet these needs. EETT dollars have been used for improving student achievement in reading and math, engaging in data-driven decision making and launching online assessment programs.

"Funding for education technology is at risk in President Obama's FY10 budget," says ISTE's director of government affairs Hilary Goldmann. "We know our students will be negatively impacted if this cut is realized."

"It is so important for members of Congress to hear from their constituents about the vital role technology plays in educating our students and ultimately keeping our country competitive globally," said Don Knezek, CEO of ISTE. "The educators who participated in our event on Capitol Hill did an excellent job of carrying the message that education technology funding must be a priority so our students have the best opportunity for success."

About ISTE

The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is the premier membership association for educators and education leaders engaged in improving teaching and learning by advancing the effective use of technology in PK-12 and teacher education.

SOURCE International Society for Technology in Education

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http://www.iste.org