Landon Allen, Director of Technology, has been on the job less than three months and has already landed the district more than a $1 million to spend on technology in the coming year. The funds are part of Covid relief through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
The Emergency Connectivity Fund Program, administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company with oversight from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will reimburse schools for the reasonable costs of eligible equipment and broadband connections to support remote learning. This includes: laptop and tablet computers; Wi-Fi hotspots; modems; routers; and broadband connectivity purchases for use by students and staff.
Of the more than $1 million awarded, $816,000 will be designated towards student devices, with the remainder used to support staff. The goal is to ensure that school districts are better equipped with adequate technology to support remote student learning.
According to Allen, this will have a significant impact on students and staff. Funds will support the purchase of 470 staff and over 3,000 student devices.
"Ottumwa Schools is committed to ensuring we are meeting the needs of every student," said Allen. "This funding further advances our vision to engage, educate, and empower every student every day."