Representatives of Iowa’s educators will meet to discuss challenges they face and share their goals and needs in implementing broadband statewide to support 21st century education. This is the first panel discussion that will be broadcasted statewide and is open to public questions from all Iowans about broadband and education. Locally, residents can partake in the discussion through the Iowa Communications Network (ICN), this Thursday, April 9th, from 1:30-until 3:30-p.m., at the Atlantic High School.

Broadband Matters, an initiative of Iowa Communications Network (ICN), is dedicated to providing awareness of the critical need to connect every student with high-speed Internet access. Broadband creates a culture in which learning becomes more interactive in and outside of the classroom, allowing for a more positive collaborative learning experience.

The discussion will originate at the Grimes State Office Building, in Des Moines.
Panelists will include:
• Brad Buck, Director, Iowa Department of Education
• John Carver, Superintendent, Howard-Winneshiek Community School District
• Galen Howsare, Deputy Executive Director, Iowa Association of School Boards
• Ric Lumbard, Executive Director, Iowa Communications Network
• Mark White, Director, Iowa Community College Online Consortium