The New Lebanon CSD has been informed that it will receive $95,000 for technology upgrades through the Smart Schools Bond Act. The District will be using the funds to purchase 205 Chromebooks, as well as warranties and related equipment. The Chromebooks will allow the schools to be 1:1 in grades K-12.
“We could not be happier about the announcement. The pandemic has proven that technology and connectivity are more important than ever. Notwithstanding the intelligence, grit and determination of our students and teachers, we want to ensure that they have all the tools they need to meet the demands of the 21st century,” said New Lebanon Superintendent Andrew Kourt.
The initiative is intended to finance educational technology and infrastructure, providing students access to the latest technology and connectivity needed to succeed in today’s world of constant technological evolution.
Through the Smart Schools Bond Act, schools seek to bridge the technological divide and meet the needs of the 21st century by investing in an array of technology-based improvements, such as computer servers, interactive whiteboards, tablets, desktop and laptop computers, and high-speed broadband and wireless connectivity.
This technology helps students to learn at their own pace, expands access to advanced courses and interactive curriculum, and enhances communication between parents and teachers. These improvements will provide students with the technology required to succeed as schools continue to respond to the ongoing pandemic and operate under remote and hybrid learning models.
In total, 78 Smart Schools Investment Plans aimed at improving school security and reshaping education for the 21st century were approved through the governor’s office. The plans, which total $59.9 million, are part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act – a sweeping education technology initiative first proposed by the governor and overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2014. A summary of the plans is available here.