In the heart of India’s mountainous state of Uttarkhand, Parambir Singh Kathait has spent a decade teaching English and social studies to students in government-funded schools. Because his school’s computer lab had only four computers, Kathait struggled to demonstrate projects on the computers while stll giving students their own time on the machines. Three years ago, Kathait underwent a comprehensive IT training program that redefined his understanding of teaching with technology. The training program, called Project Shiksha, is a Microsoft initiative that has helped 200,000 Indian government school teachers become computer literate over the past five years. Says Kathait: “It was a turning point in my teaching career.

EChalk designs, hosts and manages Web sites for elementary, middle and high schools nationwide, providing e-mail and blog support and requiring secure logins to maximize student safety. On eChalk-based school sites contain information such as homework assignments, syllabi and upcoming tests so students, parents and teachers can all be on the same page.

The media center was transformed into the students’ polling precinct, and 14 computers were set up for students to electronically register their votes. Students voted via school district software called eChalk, and for those who had any difficulties voting electronically, paper ballots were available.