Rebates to pay for school computers

Proceeds from a class-action lawsuit will pay for new technology in hundreds of Miami-Dade and Broward schools. Some of Florida's neediest schools will get an infusion of technology, thanks to a class-action lawsuit settlement between the state and Microsoft Corp.

More than $93 million in vouchers for computers and software arrived in school districts across the state last month. Miami-Dade received nearly $20 million, while Broward got $8 million. The Florida Department of Education estimates that nearly 260 schools in Dade and 130 schools in Broward are eligible for the funds.

Half of the money can be used to purchase hardware such as desktop, laptop or tablet computers, interactive white boards and printers. The other half must be used for software. The vouchers must be used by June 17, 2010. They may be applied retroactively to purchases made after April 15, 2003.

Source: Miami Herald