Giving Compass' Take:

• Christine Jones, coordinator of Educational Technology in Palmdale School District, describes how the district leveled the technology playing field and closed tech disparities. 

•  How can donors support technology and accessibility in schools? What are the main barriers for school districts in obtaining education tech? 

• Read about the education technology divide in America. 

In 2014, Palmdale School District was experiencing a major digital divide. With 28 campuses spread across the Southern California district, each managing its own technology decisions, some schools regularly enjoyed the benefits of technology in the classroom, while those in higher poverty areas had minimal tech interaction, if any. District leaders knew that something had to change, and it needed to happen fast.

So, in 2015, the “Palmdale Promise” was born. The goal was simple: provide students with a well-rounded education—including technology competency—designed to help them throughout their lives. Yet, rolling out a district-wide initiative to a student body of more than 19,000 individuals is no easy feat.

We spoke with Christine Jones, coordinator of Educational Technology at Palmdale, and Scott Whitney, teacher and media technician at Oak Tree Learning Center, to learn how they rose to the challenge. Discover how the district leveled the technology playing field across its schools, created new opportunities for students, and enhanced learning experiences for all.

Read the full article about digital learning disparity by Cheryl Miller at EdSurge.