New York Governor Kathy Hochul. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink, File)
NEW YORK — Governor Kathy Hochul recently announced the approval of 59 smart school investment plans focused on reimagining education and improving school safety in evolving times.
The approved $27 million plan is part of the Smart Schools Bond Act, a broader $2 billion education technology program, according to a press release from the governor's office.
“Providing students with opportunities to learn using cutting-edge technology is essential to preparing them for the workforce of the future,” Hochul said in the release. “These investments will not only provide a safer learning environment, but will also give our students a greater understanding of the utilities available to them in the world after graduation.”
The Smart School Review Committee recently held its 21st meeting to consider investment plans submitted by school districts and special education schools. The Board is comprised of the New York State Budget Director, the Chancellor of the State University of New York, and the Secretary of the State Department of Education.
The plans approved by the board were submitted by 53 school districts and two special education schools. The project includes $21 million for high-tech security, $4.4 million for classroom technology, $1 million for kindergarten classrooms, $604,000 for school connectivity, and $37,000 for non-public school classroom technology and school connectivity. It is included. View an overview of the plan.
The approved investments will help keep students safe and modernize classrooms across the state.
High-tech security tools supported by the Smart Schools Guarantee Act include access control systems, video systems, and emergency classroom notification systems. These upgrades will make New York schools safer and allow students to learn in a safe environment.
New technology purchases supported by the Smart School Bond Act include computer servers, interactive whiteboards, tablets, desktop and laptop computers, and high-speed broadband and wireless connectivity. These tools allow students to personalize their learning, expand learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom, and facilitate communication between parents and teachers.
“The Smart Schools Bond Act modernizes outdated classrooms and also strengthens school safety,” Blake Washington, Budget Director, said in a release. “By continuing to invest in the school's IT infrastructure and technology, our students will safely grow and develop in the digital age.”
“For nearly a decade, schools across the state have benefited from the resources provided by the SSBA, and the plan approved today will help address the rapidly changing technology and security needs of our students and educational communities. and many more school districts,” the department said. School Board Member Betty A. Rosa added. ” Enhanced technology has been a real game-changer for teachers, students, and families in New York.
“Innovative technology can drive improvements in teaching and learning and make schools safer. Tomorrow’s breakthrough technologies will be created by today’s students, so we need to help lead us into the future. Let’s continue to give them the tools and resources they need.”
“Preparing students for success requires access to technology that helps them learn and opens doors to future possibilities,” said State University of New York President John B. King, Jr. . “The Smart School Bond Act will provide New York students with equitable access to advanced technology that will better prepare them for education and careers.”
In 2014, New York State invested $2 billion in schools through the Smart Schools Bond Act. This is an initiative that funds educational technology and infrastructure, giving students access to the latest technology and connectivity they need to succeed and compete in the 21st century economy. New Yorkers agreed, as voters approved the Smart Schools Bond Act in November of that year.
In response to the proposed bond legislation, the Smart Schools Committee was established to gather information on strategies for how schools can most effectively invest their bond funds. The advisory committee recommended a focus on expanding robust broadband and wireless connectivity and leveraging innovative technologies.
The plan approved today by the Smart Schools Review Committee reflects many of the best practices identified by the committee.
