14 DAY TRIAL // After committing to ending digital isolation for no less than 1 million students in the United States through the Shape the Future program, Microsoft is also hard at work to ensure that technology also makes a difference in teachers’ lives as well. The Redmond company is collaborating with Intel and the New York State Teachers Centers to enable K–12 teachers in New York to take advantage of discounted PCs and free technology tools.
The trio plans to offer low-cost PCs, software, technology training and professional development support to no less than 300,000 educators in NY through what they call the Tech4Teachers Program.
“Because a teacher’s job requires long hours preparing lessons, individualizing instruction and connecting with parents, having the technology tools they need to complete this work outside the classroom becomes essential,” explained Sig Behrens, general manager for U.S. Education, Microsoft.
“This partnership extends Microsoft’s commitment, through our Shape the Future program, to ignite digital access and education tools, not only to students, but also to those who teach them. Technology, brought to bear to support quality teaching and parent engagement, will help to drive positive outcomes for New York’s students.”
According to the software giant, all public, private or pre-service teachers can take advantage of Tech4Teachers Program offerings, as long as they’re members of the New York State Teachers Centers.
“As technology dramatically changes our society, educators must master the skills and behaviors of professionals in the digital age,” added Eileen Lento, Ph.D., Intel Americas K–12 strategist.
“Programs like these are essential because they empower teachers to drive change in our schools and in our classrooms. Today’s educators must be equipped to provide a learning environment that takes students beyond the walls of their classrooms and into a world of endless opportunities.”