The federal government has, on the whole, has done an excellent job, especially since 1996, in fostering the use of technology in K-12 public schools in the United States. The Department of Education's focus on getting computers and Internet access to low-income schools and communities is the right approach. This paper measures the impact of the federal investment in technology in the schools. Whether this is a worthwhile investment, the author notes, depends on one's view of technology as a learning tool. Here, the author summarizes the role of technology in the growth of the American economy, offers an exhaustive account of current federal programs, and presents the arguments for and against a larger role for technology in American schooling. He concludes by splitting the difference between advocates and critics of technology, endorsing middle-ground proposals that include increased aid to low-income and rural areas, an emphasis on teacher training and technical support, a national clearinghouse for software, the establishment of community technology centers, and a "computer civics" program that would teach responsible use of technology and its historical and social context. Comments by Tom Loveless and Linda G. Roberts are presented. (Contains 2 figures and 90 notes.)