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NextFrontier Africa is a media platform spotlighting Africa’s emerging opportunities in technology, tourism, aviation, agriculture, health, logistics, real estate, trade, education, and e-commerce.

February 11.2025

2 Minutes Read

Federal Funding Challenges Could Reverse Digital Progress in Schools

Study area showcasing digital access with a tablet and books.

Will Federal Funding Gaps Create Digital Access Crises?

The pandemic catalyzed a digital transformation in education, spurring significant investments in technology that increased student internet access. However, as federal relief funds expire, many school districts are at risk of losing digital resources essential for remote learning and digital equity. New Mexico, for instance, faces a unique challenge where over 285,000 students benefit from school-issued devices, but 8% still lack connectivity due to ''connectivity deserts'' that permeate rural and tribal areas across the state.

Challenges of Maintaining Digital Equity Post-Pandemic

In a post-pandemic landscape, the dual challenges of funding and infrastructure threaten to erode the digital advances made in education. Initiatives designed to maintain essential technologies, such as device refresh programs, are hindered by a lack of clear funding pathways and precise data that could support state legislature decisions. John Chadwick’s inventive idea of leasing devices instead of purchasing them is one of the creative solutions being considered to navigate budget constraints while ensuring all students maintain access to essential technology.

A National Perspective on Digital Access Accessibility

The situation in New Mexico mirrors broader national trends. Approximately 92% of school districts utilized federal funds to bolster their digital infrastructure during the pandemic, and as a result, a larger population of students gained internet access. According to educational leaders, few states have developed comprehensive plans to sustain these gains, raising concerns about future accessibility as administrations pivot to different funding priorities and approaches.

What Lies Ahead for Digital Learning?

The rapid acceleration of digital equity initiatives during the pandemic was a significant advancement for many students, pushing internet access to the forefront of educational necessities. However, states now face a crucial moment of introspection—will they continue investing in digital infrastructure, or risk regressing to a time when many lacked basic online access? The momentum achieved must not be squandered and will require innovative thinking, strategic resource allocation, and collaboration among all stakeholders in education to ensure every student has a chance to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

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Federal Funding Challenges Could Reverse Digital Progress in Schools

Will Federal Funding Gaps Create Digital Access Crises?

Challenges of Maintaining Digital Equity Post-Pandemic

A National Perspective on Digital Access Accessibility

What Lies Ahead for Digital Learning?

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