Leveraging Community-based Partners to Build and Sustain Systems and Infrastructure

Foundational to closing divides in digital use are efforts to close gaps in access to connectivity and devices, and ensure the system architecture necessary to power digital learning. The session presents tips and resources for how districts can help unconnected families get online. District leaders present case studies for connectivity, including the Affordable Connectivity Program (EducationSuperhighway and Worcester Public Schools) and the Community Connectivity program (Phoenix College). The session concludes by examining ways to extend beyond the baseline system architectural. This includes needs for devices and connectivity to sustain digital equity through 24/7 access to devices and connectivity, aligned systems and policies, competency-based professional learning, and powerful learning.
Participants will gain an understanding of the Digital Equity framework and explore a roadmap for successful implementation to help learners transition successfully from K-12 to postsecondary and other pathways to achieve greater well-being and economic security.