(a) The State Superintendent may:
(1) Procure and develop curriculum-based learning resources using state-of-the-art technologies and techniques designed to increase the achievement levels of all students in all subject areas;
(2) Procure and develop long-term comprehensive instructional programming and associated support resources that ensure maximum access by all educational institutions;
(3) Develop standards for teachers and other school system employees for the offering of courses or services on the Internet or through other developing technologies;
(4) Review courses and courseware to assure quality and alignment with the Maryland content standards and other appropriate standards;
(5) Track and issue periodic reports on the type and frequency of courses or services utilized by teachers and other professionals under this section; and
(6) Award grants to eligible private or public consortia to enable eligible consortia to develop state-of-the-art technology-enhanced instructional products, resources, and services for use in the classroom, including:
(i) The development, production, and distribution of instructional programming for students;
(ii) Staff development programming for teachers; and
(iii) Incorporation of creative state-of-the-art applications of technology-enhanced learning resources, such as:
1. Computer software;
2. Databases;
3. Films;
4. Transparencies;
5. Multimedia video and audio discs;
6. Telecommunications;
7. Educational television;
8. Print resources; and
9. Web-based resources and courses.
(b) In accordance with Subtitle 10A of this title, the State Superintendent shall award a grant for the implementation of a pilot program to introduce elementary age students to computer technology and train teachers to integrate that technology into their curriculum.