State Auditor Brian Sonntag says that the state's nine educational service districts -- regional organizations set up to provide training, technical help and other support to schools -- could get an extra $15 million in savings and revenue over five years, as well as helping school districts tap an extra $10.5 million.

But overall, the months-long, $1.4 million state audit found that the ESDs are providing a valuable service to education. The report specifically praises Spokane ESD 101's "try it before you buy it" program, through which schools can test-drive new classroom technology before laying out the cash for it. The auditor also liked Spokane's internet-safety program, a team effort with both state and federal law enforcement officials.

The full report is here. NOTE: This is a 1,309-page .pdf document -- even with a good broadband connection, this takes a while.

To read the 12-page summary, click here.

---

---