Smart Schools Bond Act
The Smart Schools Bond Act, approved by New York State voters in 2014, authorized the issuance of $2 billion of general obligation bonds to finance improved educational technology and infrastructure to improve learning and opportunity for students throughout the State.
The Office of Educational Design and Technology reviews Smart Schools Investment Plans submitted by districts wishing to utilize Smart Schools funds for educational technology-related purchases, including
- Infrastructure to improve high-speed broadband or wireless internet connectivity for schools and communities
- Learning technology equipment (such as computers, tablets, interactive whiteboards, and 3D printers)
When reviewing Smart Schools Investment Plans, the Office of Educational Design and Technology looks for alignment with the district's Instructional Technology Plan. Districts that include educational technology purchases as part of their Smart Schools Investment Plan must have a submitted and approved Instructional Technology Plan survey on file with the New York State Education Department, and their Smart Schools Investment Plan must be consistent with their Instructional Technology Plan.
The Office of Educational Management Services manages the Smart Schools program at NYSED. For more information, please visit their Smart Schools Bond Act website or email SmartSchools@nysed.gov.