• SMART SCHOOLS FUNDING and SMART SCHOOLS INVESTMENT PLAN (SSIP)

     

    SMART SCHOOLS FUNDING

    The SMART SCHOOLS BOND ACT OF 2014 was passed in the 2014 – 2015 Enacted Budget and approved by the voters in a statewide referendum held during the 2014 General Election.  In conjunction with the Smart Schools Bond Act, the 2014 Budget in Chapter 54 and 55 of the Laws of 2014, authorized the issuance of a one-time $5 million bond to finance educational technology capital projects to improve learning and opportunity for students with disabilities in Special Act School Districts, State-Supported Schools and approved private education day and residential schools throughout the State.  The $5 million in Smart Schools funding will support students enrolled in these schools by funding capital projects including classroom technology, high-tech security, school connectivity, and classroom trailer replacement. 

     

    SMART SCHOOLS INVESTMENT PLAN (SSIP) - St. Mary’s School for the Deaf (SMSD)

    St. Mary’s School for the Deaf intends to utilize its portion of the Smart Schools Funding, $26,632 to purchase classroom technology.  More specifically, the School’s SSIP plans to acquire a mix of computers (desk and lap top), Chromebooks, and tablets.  The acquisition will enable the School to both upgrade existing technology as well as add to its equipment inventory.

    Students and staff will realize a maximum benefit from the new technology as the School possesses sufficient connectivity and infrastructure.  SMSD has 46 wireless connections and 100MB of bandwidth.  Improved technology and support within SMSD are sustained as the annual budget includes funding for technology acquisitions and staff training.

    The SMSD staff has developed strong technology skills as the School encourages and supports ongoing training.  Technology in the classroom and throughout the School allows differentiated instruction as a cornerstone of the School’s educational program leading to improved outcomes and student success.  The SSIP funding will ensure that the School’s diverse student population will have equal access to improved educational services, learning opportunities resulting in reduced learning gaps.

     

    INFORMATION

    School Address: 2253 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14214

    There will be an opportunity to discuss the SSIP by interested parties at the School’s Board meeting on October 17th, 2018 from 4:30 pm until 4:40 pm.