Two of East Greenbush Central School District’s Smart Schools Investment Plan proposals were approved by the NYS Education Department this summer.
The state funding totals $549,918 and will be used to enhance the district’s WiFi network and purchase new instructional technology devices such as interactive whiteboards and Chromebooks. A third proposal is currently under review.
“These proposals will first and foremost ensure that our students and faculty receive the maximum benefit from the technology made available under the Smart Schools Bond Act,” said Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction James McHugh. “All of our schools must possess sufficient connectivity infrastructure to ensure that devices can be used during the school day, particularly during periods of high demand, such as computer-based testing periods.”
The District was allocated $2,312,974 in state funding through the Smart Schools Bond Act, which was approved in a statewide election in November 2014.
Before any state funds are made available, a NYS Education Department Review Board must approve district spending plans. The approval process includes an initial review, program area review, expenditure review and a final Education Department review.
“Our Board of Education has identified the expansion of computer technology access to students as a significant priority for all of our schools,” said Superintendent Jeff Simons. “The approval and implementation of our Smart Schools Investment Plans will enable our district to make significant progress towards the 21st century educational vision for students.”
Smart Schools Investment Plan Proposals
| Amount | Proposed Purchase | Status |
| $180,601.00 | Enhance district’s WiFi network | Approved |
| $369,317.00 | Purchase instructional technology devices such as interactive displays and Chromebooks, and to enhance the district’s network | Approved |
| $899,541.00 | Equip a 1:1 computer program for grades 3-12, using Google Chromebook computers | Expenditure Review |