AASA Statement on the Announcement of Apple ConnectED Grants

Daniel A. Domenech, the executive director of AASA, The School Superintendents Association, issued the following statement today upon the announcement of Apple’s selection of 114 schools (in 29 states) to receive an Apple grant as part of the company’s ConnectED commitment. Apple’s $100 million contribution will provide iPads and MacBooks, learning content, curriculum support and wireless infrastructure.

“We were grateful to have the opportunity to be among the small group of our national education partners who participated in the selection process for Apple’s grant finalists this summer.

“AASA is steadfastly committed to using cutting-edge technology solutions in our classrooms. This multiyear program is aimed at transforming learning in schools located in many of the nation’s most underserved communities, which is a major reason why this initiative is so important. This is an example of narrowing the achievement gap as well as the opportunity gap. All grant recipients have 96 percent or more students eligible for free or reduced-priced lunches.

“The digital revolution is having an extraordinary impact on how we reshape the education industry. As we work to ensure steady progress in delivering richer learning experiences for our students, this effort will put some mileage in advancing equity and opportunity in public education. Access to technology is a crucial way to level the playing field for our country’s students.

“What Apple is doing in these underprivileged schools will be transformative not only for the students, but also for their communities.”

To learn more, access http://www.apple.com/education/connectED/.

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About AASA
AASA, The School Superintendents Association, founded in 1865, is the professional organization for more than 13,000 educational leaders in the United States and throughout the world. AASA’s mission is to support and develop effective school system leaders who are dedicated to the highest quality public education for all children. For more information, visit www.aasa.org.