Senator Gallivan Applauds $43 Million in Smart Schools Investments Statewide

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) congratulates Lancaster Central School District and Depew Union Free School District for being among 36 schools statewide to receive funding under the Smart Schools Bond Act.  The $2 billion bond act was approved by voters in 2014 to support education technology and high-speed broadband in hundreds of schools across New York. 

Lancaster will receive $2.9 million and Depew will get $1.3 million.  In all, 36 plans were approved by the Smart Schools Review Board totaling more than $43 million for classroom technology purchases, school connectivity projects, high-tech security projects and pre-kindergarten classroom projects. 

“This funding will provide students with the tools and technology they need to succeed, whether they go to college or the workforce,” Gallivan said.  “The ambitious plans submitted by Lancaster and Depew will expand opportunities for students and help educators prepare them for the 21^st century.” 

Under the Smart Schools Act, school districts submit plans to invest in technology such as computer servers, interactive whiteboards, tablets, desktop and laptop computers, and high-speed broadband and wireless connectivity. Funds can also facilitate necessary investments in pre-kindergarten classrooms, removal of classroom trailers and high-tech school security.  Plans must be approved by the Smart Schools Review Board, which 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.

Lancaster Central School District is investing in Pre-K classrooms and classroom technology.  Depew UFSD will use the funds for classroom technology and school connectivity.  Both school districts are based in the 59^th Senate District.

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