The Smart Schools Bond Act (SSBA) was approved by New York State voters in 2014 and 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 SSBA requires that a Review Board review and approve districts’ Smart Schools Investment Plans before any funds may be made available for the program.
The Smart Schools allocation for the Watervliet City School District is $1.4 million.
Based on educational needs determined through district and community conversations, the committee is proposing that Smart Schools funding be allocated in the following three categories:
- School Connectivity (Wireless Connection)
- High-Tech Security Features
- Classroom Technology
1st Priority
- Upgrade network core switches in both buildings
- Needed for the back bone of all the wireless and emergency systems to function
- Install Managed Wireless Systems in both buildings
- Needed before additional Classroom Technology is purchased
- Will allow the possibilities of “bring your device” for staff and students in the future
- Provide guest networks for school events
2nd Priority
- Upgrade Cameras and Security
- WES will get installations of cameras inside and out to monitor building activities
- If approved by State Ed, all Cisco phones will be upgraded (currently 14 years old) to new models
- Add classroom Cisco phones to WES/WHS
- Specialty security software *will be budgeted in the general funds (approximately $10,000)
3rd Priority
Proposed classroom technology will:
- Enhance differentiated instruction;
- Expand student learning inside and outside the classroom;
- Benefit students with disabilities and English language learners; and
- Contribute to the reduction of other learning gaps that have been identified within the district.
- Items in this category of emergent technology include: 3-D printers, laser cutter, Chrome books w/ carts, projectors/boards, desktops, tablets, etc.
Estimated Cost
- Upgrade Switches: $156,650
- Wireless: $235,000
(plus wire installation): $75,000 - Cameras and Security
- WES New Cameras/System: $54,200
- WHS Update Cameras/System: $51,585
- Device upgrade (Telephones): $54,000
- Classroom Technology $773,656
Total Smart Bond: $1.4 million
District officials and the technology committee invite the community’s feedback on the plan. If you have comments or questions, please contact Director of School Accountability Kirsten DeMento by phone at 629-3231, or email kdemento@vliet.neric.org.