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Whistle-blower lawsuit settled
The Madison County Commission approved an out-of-court settlement Friday of a federal whistle-blower lawsuit that could save more than $1.3 million in taxpayers' money. Five of the six commissioners voted to pay $53,750 as the county's part of a $110,000 settlement to end litigation that stemmed from the defunct Working Connection welfare-to-work program. Tommie Lockhart of Huntsville, who sued in October 2001 under the federal False Claims Act, will receive 30 percent of the settlement. The government will receive a 70 percent share after payment of $45,000 to Lockhart's attorney, Kerri Riley, for legal fees. Lockhart was executive director of the program from December 1999 to August 2000. Commissioner Faye Dyer was absent Friday, and Commission Chairman Mike Gillespie does not vote unless there is a tie.
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Students use the technology to explore the world beyond their classroom, to conduct research and, in many cases, to connect to teachers for courses offered through distance education.
Teachers use computer programs to update report cards, conduct research for lesson preparation and connect with students and other teachers.
Over the years, the investment in computer systems has been enormous as schools try to keep up with a rapidly developing technology.
In last year's budget, the province set aside $2 million for a K-12 Technology Integration program.
The money would help purchase 500 new computer systems — two for every primary and elementary school across the province; 300 new computer systems to supply each school with a new high-end computer system and accompanying video camera system (for viewing of microscopic images) to aid science instruction in K-12 classes; 50 computer systems for 25 schools piloting a new skilled trades course; and 350 refurbished computer workstations.
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