The following is what Common Knowledge offers each site who applies through its Request for Proposal (RFP) process:
VII. Equipment and Support Each site selected will receive approximately $75,000 worth of equipment. Networking equipment - server, router, and concentrator ($10,500), Internet Connectivity ($2000), Computer and peripheral equipment ($50,000), Local Area Network wiring ($12,500), Staff training by CK:P educational staff, Technical support from both CK:P and PPS staff. Schools should note that this is a limited installation that will not meet the needs of the entire school. CK:P will provide the foundation of a network infrastructure that is both scalable and sustainable. If the site has equipment (PC 486 DX or higher, MAC LCIII or higher) that is powerful enough, CK:P will assist in placing these devices on the school LAN. Staff training will occur at the school or the CK:P beta site at times convenient to the faculty and community participants. There is no money for paid staff development.
The RFP process allows groups of teachers to define their network activity to meet their professional and classroom needs. The RFP process provides a unique opportunity in a public school setting for entrepreneurship and ownership. It fosters professional growth. We judged success with respect to the goal of curriculum development through interest in the RFP, effect on the curriculum and maturity of proposals over time. Data collected indicates that this goal was met: