Learning Forward will work with the State Educational Technology Directors Association and ISTE+ASCD to develop a guide on using Title IIA funds to close the digital design divide, the gap in educators’ access to professional learning that builds capacities to design learning experiences enabled by technology. The project is funded by a grant from Google.org.

Title IIA funds, authorized at $2.3 billion under the Every Student Succeeds Act, have long supported educators with professional learning and instructional coaching opportunities. However, recent data from the U.S. Department of Education reveals that only nine states prioritize these funds for technology training, while fewer than 40% of districts use them to advance professional learning in technology.

With schools facing growing questions about how to incorporate technology ethically, responsibly, and helpfully, the new resource will provide actionable guidance to state and local education leaders on how to deploy Title IIA funds to close the digital design divide as articulated in the U.S. Department of Education’s 2024 National Educational Technology Plan.

The guide will include:

• Research on current Title IIA investments and technology-focused professional learning
• Strategies for effectively using Title IIA funds to close the digital design divide
• Case studies showcasing successful implementations of Title IIA funded activities
• A road map for collaboration among states, districts, and key stakeholders