Accelerate Change
Learning losses due to COVID-19 school closures can have lifelong effects on all students, and we must take steps now to lessen the impact. We are especially concerned about devastating increases in already existing gaps for Black and Latinx students, English language learners, students with learning differences, and low-income students. High-quality remote learning in a supportive learning environment is an important strategy to help address learning loss.
With this campaign, we are not only patching a hole that’s been ripped open by the pandemic – we are accelerating a long-overdue response to inequities in schools. A system-wide approach standardizes the devices, infrastructure, and learning management - ensuring equity across the system and opportunity for everyone.
This campaign takes a holistic view of what's needed for true digital equity by raising flexible funds to support:
HOPE learning centers: A supervised, supportive academic environment for students who need a safe place for remote learning during the day. DPSF is leading the call for philanthropic funding support, and partner organizations are coordinating efforts to operationalize and manage sites;
Technical Support and Digital Literacy: IT support and resources for rapid deployment and successful adoption, especially for families that need extra support;
Ongoing Needs for Student Equipment: Equipment needs that surface as online learning gets underway, such as additional devices and connectivity, to quickly help students succeed;
Teacher Training Professional development focused on digital learning, including rapid feedback to disseminate best practices in online instruction.
