New York State approved $43 million to be allocated toward 36 Smart Schools Investment Plans as part of a $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act, which will invest in education technology and increase student access to technology.
The Act will also equips students skills to succeed in a global economy, and will increase high-speed internet access to schools across the state.
“Access to high-speed internet and new technology should never depend on your zip code — and with the Smart Schools Bond Act, we are expanding educational opportunity in every corner of the state,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. “This funding will help enhance teaching and learning for the 21st century, improve educational outcomes, and prepare today’s students to be the future leaders of tomorrow.”
The Smart Schools Review Board met on Monday for the second time to approve investment plans for schools. The board is comprised of the Director of the Budget, the Chancellor of the State University of New York and the Commissioner of the State Education Department.
Of the total $43 million, $22.8 million will go toward classroom technology purchases, while $12.9 million will go toward “school connectivity projects.” Some of the technology investments will include laptop computers, tablets and interactive whiteboards.