Microsoft Student Software Vouchers
Tennessee school systems will get vouchers for Microsoft software, about $16.40 for each student, from a settlement of an unlawful trade practices lawsuit against the technology company, state education officials said Monday.
The Tennessee Department of Education will distribute a total of $15.3 million in software vouchers to school systems.
The class action lawsuit contended that Microsoft Corp. used unlawful trade practices to maintain a monopoly and overcharge Tennessee consumers.
“We are pleased that the outcome will allow Tennessee school systems to upgrade technology for the benefit of their students and allow additional resources to be directed toward improving teaching and learning,” Education Commissioner Lana Seivers said.
Each school district will receive about $16.40 per student according to the districts average daily membership (ADM) at the end of the 2005-06 school year.
School administrators will also be allowed to use software vouchers for current or future Microsoft operating system software.
“The department is working diligently to help districts take advantage of these vouchers in a timely manner,” said Tim Webb, assistant commissioner for resource and support services.
Attorneys James Stranch and Ted Carey handled Tennessee’s case, one of the first filed.
The system allocations range from Carroll County’s $155.12 to $1.9 million for Memphis schools.
