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Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced Monday that approval of 96 Smart Schools Investment Plans aimed at improving school security and reimagining teaching and learning for the 21st century. The approved plans, totaling $85 million, are part of the $2 billion Smart Schools Bond Act—a sweeping education technology initiative first proposed by the Governor and overwhelmingly approved by voters. The investments authorized today will help ensure safety, modernize classrooms across New York, and equip students with the skills they need to thrive in the global economy.

"The Smart Schools Bond Act is enhancing school safety and modernizing outdated classrooms in every corner of New York State," Cuomo said. "This funding expands opportunity and provides students with the skills and technology they need to succeed in the 21st century economy."

The Smart Schools Review Board met today for the thirteenth time to consider investment plans submitted by school districts and special education schools. The Board is composed 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 today were submitted by 90 school districts and three special education schools. Projects include $26.3 million for high-tech security projects, $25.6 million for school connectivity projects, $18.5 million for classroom technology purchases, $9.9 million for pre-kindergarten classrooms, and $4.2 million for the removal of transportable classroom units (TCUs).

With the Smart Schools Bond Act, school districts are investing in technology such as computer servers, interactive whiteboards, tablets, desktop and laptop computers, and high-speed broadband and wireless connectivity. This technology helps students to learn at their own pace, expands access to advanced courses and interactive curriculum, and enhances communication between parents and teachers. Investments in high-tech school security support the purchase of new equipment, such as high-resolution digital cameras to enhance districts' video surveillance capabilities, and other safety technology. Additional investments in the replacement of TCUs and construction of pre-kindergarten classrooms will help ensure that students learn in modern, updated spaces.

State Budget Director Robert F. Mujica said, "Through the Smart Schools program, we are protecting our children by supporting the installation of safety surveillance systems while also positioning students for success in our 21st century economy by revolutionizing classrooms with connectivity and the technology it supports."

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