Industry Summit News

State of the States: What Governors are Saying about Digital Learning

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:09

State policies, budgets and regulations have a significant impact on school implementation of educational technology.  Since the beginning of the New Year, governors across the country have been delivering their State of the State speeches and presenting their budget proposals for the next fiscal year. As outlined in a new SIIA members-only report, education including technology was a key theme for many governors.

Many governors spoke of the importance of literacy and competency by 3^rd grade, and some proposed additional spending for that goal. Common Core transition was less mentioned. There was more funding proposed for scholarship funds than for internal investments in higher education institutions and systems. Performance based funding was also a hot topic amongst the governors, and many proposed shifting of more funds into performance based formulas, especially in higher education. Flexible funding was another topic that many governors focused on and proposed in both speeches and budget proposals.

Specific digital technology funding and initiatives came from the speeches and budget proposals. Both Ohio and Arizona proposed $20 million in funding for 21^st century assessments (PARCC & SBAC). Increased IT infrastructure funds were mentioned in budgets by Georgia, Arizona, & Florida. STEM education initiatives were proposed by Virginia, Washington, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Many governors encouraged in speeches or through funding the continued development of virtual higher education resources.

SIIA has produced a summary of the policy agendas and budgets from governors of the 15 most populous states, with a focus on their proposals regarding education technology.  SIIA members can download the SIIA State of the States summary document for a state-by-state breakdown with links to the budget proposals and speeches. The importance of state funding is another topic to look for at the SIIA Ed Tech Government Forum April 9-11 in Washington DC, members should register to learn more.

Lindsay Harman is Market and Policy Analyst for the SIIA Education Division.

New SIIA California State Report Highlights Impact of Prop 30 and Other California Programs

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 18:42

After many years of budget crisis, California schools and colleges are expecting a much needed funding increase after voter passage in November of California Proposition 30.  The measure increases taxes on the highest earners in California and distributes those funds into the “Education Protection Account.” A per-pupil increase of at least $200 is expected, though it is unclear if funds will simply go into the general education fund or will be earmarked for specific programs.  In recent years, school districts have received funding flexibility in light of funding cuts, freeing up many previously restricted funds to be used for many locally-determined purposes, including for technology, content and software.  SIIA’s recently released California State Report includes details of key state programs and funding.

Governor Brown released his budget plan in January 2013, calling for continued and increased funding of education mostly through additional flexible funds provided through Proposition 30.  Look for an upcoming SIIA State of the States report for a summary of proposals by Governor Brown and governors in the 15 largest states.

The SIIA California State Report is the first in a new SIIA series of reports detailing the educational programs within the largest states.  As the more populous state in the U.S. and the home of Silicon Valley, California is certainly one of the major education technology markets. While funding for education initiatives has been generally tight in California, this report contains valuable information to help companies navigate these murky waters.  This report summarizes the key funding that local districts rely on, including for educational technologies and instructional resources.  It also outlines the state agency structure with specialized programs, contact information, links, and descriptions of certain key policies and procedures such as around instructional materials.

This report is designed to be a one-stop navigation tool for member companies interested in operating within California.  The California State report is available to SIIA members only.  Look for more State Reports and updates from SIIA on our Education Policy Page.  We also encourage members to register for SIIA’s Ed Tech Government Forum, April 9-11 in Washington, DC which will also address the role the of the state in education policy and funding.

Lindsay Harman is Market and Policy Analyst for the SIIA Education Division.

SIIA at TCEA

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 19:59

Last week in Austin over 8,000 educators, district leaders, ed tech companies, and other industry insiders gathered at the 2013 TCEA conference.  With a busy show floor and sessions, the event was a great opportunity for the various groups to interact and connect.  Several SIIA members had booths on the show floor and many more were in attendance.  The show floor was busy and many members had productive and busy booths.

SIIA’s own Karen Billings was a featured speaker and hosted a session on the Vision K-20 project on Thursday, February 8^th. This session focused on the development of the Vision K-20 goals and metrics as well as the results of the 2012 survey. The 2013 survey was launched on February 7^th and educators in attendance were encouraged to participate in the sixth survey cycle.  This session also allowed SIIA to share valuable data with the TCEA community.

SIIA also hosted its member breakfast on Thursday February 8^th and had a turnout of over 25 people who were able to hear about the latest SIIA initiatives, network and enjoy a hearty breakfast. The results of the 2011 Market Survey were presented and the attendees were given a chance to view the full report. Members are encouraged to participate in the 2012 iteration of the survey for a free copy of the report.  The breakfast also highlighted the launch of the Vision K-20 survey and encouraged companies to help us get the word out about the survey to educators.  Opportunities and upcoming events were also highlighted including the Ed Tech Government Forum and the Ed Tech Industry Summit. We hope to see you at the next SIIA member breakfast or event!

Lindsay Harman is Market and Policy Analyst for the SIIA Education Division.