PARISHVILLE -- Parishville-Hopkinton Central School District has been awarded $265,400 in Smart School Bond Act.

The Smart School Bond Act funds its Smart Schools Investment Plan (SSIP), which will provide educational technology and improvements to the technology infrastructure.

The district plans to dedicate the funds toward the purchase of Chromebooks, tablets, and other devices, as well as major upgrades to the district’s infrastructure and improvements in internet access and security, to meet Federal Communications Commission standards.

“This money will allow us to make tremendous strides toward our goal of achieving a 1:1 technology ratio throughout the district. By developing an infrastructure that allows for each student to have access to the internet, and by providing a device for each student, we will be able to provide enhanced instruction for all,” said Superintendent Dr. William Collins. “Not only will these funds improve access and instruction, but by putting a device in each of our students’ hands, we even the playing field to ensure that every student has the same opportunities, regardless of socio-economic factors.”

According to the approved plan, the proposed purchases will allow all students the opportunity to access the internet at any time. The devices provided to each student will be used to enhance and specialize instruction at all levels. The proposed purchases and improvements will also save time by eliminating scheduling difficulties associated with the reliance on designated computer labs.

Teachers in the district have participated in several training opportunities focused on integrating and implementing technology in the classroom, and professional development focused on technology in education will be ongoing. Specific policies and procedures regarding the use of technology will be determined by the district and communicated with students and parents.

The school district’s website is http://phcs.neric.org.