June 4th, 2008

 BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, along with Congressman Barney Frank, today announced that Education Development Center (EDC) – Center for Children and Technology will receive $7,304,325 under the Education Research and Development Centers Program.

Research has found that well developed portable gaming applications have the potential to improve science and literacy achievement. The funding will support the research and development of a multimedia-enhanced curriculum aimed at middle school aged students.

“This funding will help explore new high-tech ways to improve science and literacy learning in our children. I applaud both the EDC and the Department of Education for making this important initiative possible,” Senator Kerry said.

Kennedy spokesperson Melissa Wagoner said, “This federal grant is a tribute to the Center’s extraordinary work on children’s development. It’s essential that all children have the access to the best in education technology, so they can reach their full potential and become contributing members of society. The Center’s pioneering program is a model for our Commonwealth, the region and the nation.”

“I congratulate EDC on receiving this grant, which will help to enrich existing educational opportunities by incorporating new technologies. This grant also illustrates the importance of providing adequate levels of funding for federal programs, and as the budget process moves forward this year I will be doing all I can to see that valuable programs of this type continue to receive support,” said Congressman Frank.

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