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Digital Equity Readiness Checklist

For New York State students to lead productive and successful lives upon graduation, they must understand and know how to use digital technologies. Technology knowledge and skills are vital for full participation in 21st Century life, work, and citizenship. Sufficient access to computing devices and high-speed internet, both in school and at students' places of residence, are essential for educational equity.  

There are multiple factors affecting digital equity in our schools. Digital equity is not limited to hardware, software, and infrastructure. As outlined in NYSED’s District Technology Planning website, districts are responsible for providing students with access to high-quality digital resources and standards-based, technology-rich learning experiences within a culturally and linguistically responsive environment. With this in mind, districts are tasked with developing visions and goals to support student achievement and engagement, and to provide teachers and leaders with relevant instructional technology-based professional development opportunities.  

The purpose of this checklist is to help both districts and schools on their path to achieving digital equity. There are two sections included in the checklist, one at the school level and another at the district level. By using the achievement scale provided for each proposed solution, districts and schools will be able to identify weak and/or strong aspects of their path towards digital equity. It will allow them to identify and focus on areas that are “Not Started” or “Beginning.” They can use the results to help formulate plans (including their Instructional Technology Plan) and actions toward achieving digital equity for their students.