How K–12 Schools Can Make Smart Ed Tech Choices in Lean Times
As K–12 professionals start the new school year, many are concerned about federal funding shifts that could limit spending on educational technology and other programs. This summer, the government froze nearly $6.9 billion, approximately $5 billion of which was released in late July. However, with some funding still on hold and uncertainty about the impact of Medicaid cuts, K–12 districts are steeling themselves for hard choices ahead.
For perspectives on how to navigate this shifting financial landscape, EdTech spoke with leaders at four educational technology organizations: Julia Fallon, executive director at the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA); Lori Gracey, executive director at the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA); Paula Maylahn, project director at the Consortium for School Networking (CoSN); and Carmalita Seitz, managing director of online learning and digital innovation at ISTE+ASCD.
EDTECH: How are K–12 districts adjusting technology strategies in response to federal financial uncertainty?
FALLON: In the COVID era, schools had an opportunity to expand, but I think we’re moving to stabilization: sustaining core infrastructure rather than piloting new tools. Districts are focused on ed tech audits so they can eliminate redundancies and align purchases with instructional priorities. At the state level, we’re seeing more collaboration between districts and state agencies to maximize federal funds.
