New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the approval of 61 Smart Schools Investment Plans focused on reimagining education in an evolving age and boosting school security. The approved plans, totaling $31.4 million, are part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act, a sweeping education technology program established in 2014.
“Inefficient technology was a huge hurdle during the COVID-19 pandemic—perhaps nowhere more evident than in our schools—and our students’ educational and social experiences suffered,” said Hochul. “This $31.4 million investment will allow students to access the technology to bring them the opportunity to learn at their own pace while providing interactive experiences both inside and outside of the classroom.”
The Smart Schools Review Board approved plans submitted by 57 school districts and one special education school. Projects include $16.6 million for high-tech security, $7.2 million for classroom technology, $7.1 million for school connectivity, and $500,000 for nonpublic schools’ classroom technology and school connectivity. A summary of the plans is available here.
High-tech security tools supported by New York’s Smart Schools Bond Act include entry control systems, video systems, and emergency classroom notification systems. New technology purchases include computer servers, interactive whiteboards, tablets, desktop and laptop computers, and high-speed broadband and wireless connectivity.