Senator Gallivan Applauds Smart School Investment Plan

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is applauding the approval of 154 Smart Schools Investment Plans aimed at reimagining teaching and learning for the 21st century. The approved plans, totaling $103.2 million, include more than $4.1 million for eight school districts in the 59th Senate District.  The funding is part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act – an education technology initiative overwhelmingly approved by voters in 2014. The investments will modernize classrooms across New York and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the global economy.

“This funding ensures schools have the tools and resources in place to help students succeed in our technology based world,” Gallivan said.  “By increasing access to technology and high speed broadband services, we close the digital divide and make it possible for all students to excel in the classroom and beyond.”

The Smart Schools Review Board considered investment plans submitted by 136 school districts and 8 special education schools from across the state. 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.

The plans approved include:

• Alexander CSD:  $261,073 for school connectivity

• Dansville CSD:  $751,739 for classroom technology

• Eden CSD:  $265,086 for classroom technology

• Fillmore CSD:  $543,986 for classroom technology and high-tech security

• Gowanda CSD:  $243,700 for classroom technology

• Iroquois CSD:  $1,305,424 for school connectivity

• Mt. Morris CSD:  $276,229 for classroom technology and school connectivity

• York CSD:  $499,579 for high-tech security, classroom technology and school connectivity

In November 2014, voters approved a $2 billion investment in schools through a Smart Schools Bond Act, a program that would finance educational technology and infrastructure, providing students access to the latest technology and connectivity needed to compete in the 21st century economy.   

Following the approval of the Bond Act, Governor Cuomo established the Smart Schools Commission to gather information on strategies for how schools can most effectively invest the bond funds. This advisory commission produced a final report recommending a focus on expanding robust broadband and wireless connectivity and utilizing transformative technologies. The plans approved by the Smart Schools Review Board reflect many of the best practices identified by the Commission.

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