Beacon began in 1997 in response to teachers' requests for effective resources and appropriate uses of technology to improve student achievement. Beacon provides resources for students and teachers alike.

Among Beacon's offerings are:

• An extensive database of online student lessons and learning activities focused on the Sunshine State Standards.

• A central databank of standards-based online lesson and unit plans cross-referenced to Beacon's online lessons and student Web lessons.

• An easy-to-use online search tool that directs learners to various subject areas and resources aimed at student achievement.

• A report-building tool that allows students to create their own multimedia reports on topics that can then be published on the Web.

• A Web site builder that allows teachers to build and maintain classroom Web sites from simple Web forms.

• A range of quality staff development opportunities to assist teachers in using technology as a teaching tool.

The Beacon Learning Center is funded through the U.S. Department of Education Technology Innovation Challenge Grant Program.