NY approves $315K for Lyndonville schools to improve connectivity, technology
LYNDONVILLE – The state Education Department has approved phase two of a technology plan at Lyndonville Central School.
After approving $133,000 for interactive classroom whiteboards about a year ago, the state has given its OK to $315,600 for “connectivity” at the district. The new routers, network improvements, switches, wireless access points, and classrooms hardwired for computers will allow the district to have the computer infrastructure in place for phase three, when Lyndonville adds laptops, desktop computers, computer servers and more white boards.
“We don’t want to purchase more equipment and not have the infrastructure to support it,” said Jason Smith, the district superintendent.
The projects are funded with the $733,000 allocated for Lyndonville as part of a $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act, which was passed by NY voters in 2014.
Lyndonville’s has held public hearings on its technology plans, and submitted the plans to the state.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced today that Lyndonville’s phase two for connectivity was part of $103.2 million approved for 154 Smart School Investment Plans.
The technology upgrades will modernize classrooms across New York and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the global economy, Cuomo said.
“By investing in modern technology for classrooms across the state, we expand educational opportunity, increase student engagement, boost achievement, and close the digital divide,” Governor Cuomo said. “This funding equips students with the skills and technology they need to succeed in the modern economy and build a stronger New York for all.”
Smith said Lyndonville is using Google Classroom, where teachers post assignments online and students can then submit research papers and other school projects.
The district plans to visit other schools to see how they have implemented laptops and other technology in the classroom.
Lyndonville is waiting on state approval for phase three of the technology plan, which includes the laptops for student use.
