The ReNEW Schools charter-school network in New Orleans had a generous solution for its students without Internet access at their houses — take-home laptops equipped with a wireless broadband connection. However, school leaders pulled the plug on the expensive benefit when the federal program that finances school technology delayed a decision over whether such expenditures should be reimbursed — a decision that could affect schools nationwide.

Throughout the city, school-zone flashers fail to light on weekday mornings and afternoons, and cars drive by without slowing down. The city says the solar panels don't get enough sunlight to charge on overcast days. In some cases, the solar panels have been installed incorrectly. Elsewhere, the batteries need to be replaced.