The League of United Latin American Citizens of Wisconsin has announced more than $400,000 in grants to assist in educating minorities and help bridge the education achievement gap, the Journal Sentinel reports.

At a luncheon attended by nearly 200 people from various minority communities, universities and community organizations, Campaign for High School Equity director Michael Wotorson called education an emerging civil rights issue and urged communities to “come together to construct solutions in education for us and our kids.”

The largest grant announced was $300,000 from CSC Learning, a Chicago-based educational technology and consulting firm that specializes in scientifically based programs to assist students.

“It’s a wonderful tool to assist teachers,” said superintendent Deborah Kerr of CSC Learning’s program. “And students love it because it’s technology-based.”

Educators say new software and technology, such as a computer, interactive whiteboard or a classroom projector, provides students with the tools they need to be prepared for the future.

In addition, LULAC will receive grants from the Ford Motor Company Fund, the Campaign from High School Equity and $25,000 from Time Warner Cable to form a technology center in Waukesha.