Focus Area

Connectivity and Digital Equity

Training and consulting support for obtaining state, federal, and grant funding to help districts with access to, and improvements of, broadband connectivity, devices, and digital resources that increase equitable learning opportunities.

Working toward equitable access and opportunities for all students

 

Connectivity and digital equity are crucial in K-12 education, ensuring all students have equal access to online resources and digital learning opportunities. These factors are fundamental to closing the achievement gap, promoting inclusive education, and preparing students for a technology-driven future. Equitable access to reliable internet and digital devices enables students to engage fully in modern learning experiences, develop essential digital skills, and participate in an increasingly connected world.

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) is committed to supporting K-12 districts and educators in achieving connectivity and digital equity. We provide guidance on infrastructure planning, assist in identifying funding opportunities, and offer strategies for implementing 1:1 device programs. The LTC also helps districts develop policies and practices that ensure equitable access to digital resources both in school and at home. Through our resources and expertise, we aim to empower schools to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all students have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in the digital age.

Services
Consulting

Cybersecurity Pilot Program

Free

Support for Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF).

Consulting

E-Rate Consulting

Free

Support for E-rate and related programs.

Consulting

Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF) Support

Free

Support for Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF).

Professional Learning

IETC Conference

November
$175+

The Illinois Education and Technology Conference, held annually in Springfield, brings together educators and tech experts to explore innovative teaching methods and leverage technology for enhanced learning statewide.

Service

ILTPP Purchasing Cooperative

Free

Save money and time through ILTPP cooperative purchasing contracts.

Network

LTC Online Community

Free

A free online community for educators, admin, and technology leaders.

Service

Mini-Grants

September
Free

Elevate technology and digital learning in your district with the Learning Technology Center’s Mini-Grant Program, offering up to $1,000 for innovative K-12 projects that enhance teaching, learning, and professional development.

Professional Learning

Regional Workshops and Events

Variable

Over 650 regional events and conferences on educational technology topics.

Consulting

Technology & Connectivity Funding

Free

Support for E-rate and related programs.

Professional Learning

Webinars

Free

Register for our regular webinar series and view recordings.

Resources

One-to-One Podcast

Conversations from the heart of education and technology with Brian and Matt.

Podcast

School Law Update: Top Tech Issues for the 2022-23 School Year

Video

Digital Bridge K12: Connectivity Toolkit

Digital Bridge K12: Connectivity Toolkit contains guidance and best practices to help you find and compare Internet options for students that lack home access.

Tools and AppsOrganization

Connect K12

Connect K-12 is a free, actionable internet speed and pricing information tool for America’s K-12 school districts.

Organization

ICN (Illinois Century Network)

ICN (Illinois Century Network) is a secure K-12 Broadband Network available at no cost for all Illinois K-12 public school districts. This program removes barriers limiting access to secure Internet bandwidth essential in today’s digital learning environment.

Organization

The Broadband Imperative III

The Broadband Imperative III: Driving Connectivity, Access and Student Success report advocates for equitable, reliable, robust broadband access both on and off campus to prepare all students for life and work.

Report

IL Broadband Interactive Map – Connect Illinois

IL Broadband Interactive Map is produced by the Illinois Broadband Lab and displays different levels of access for various stakeholders across the state.

Tools and Apps

Instructional Technology Coach Funding

Despite their growing popularity and research to back their efficacy, funding for coaching programs can be sparse in many districts. These funding sources can help your district start and sustain a productive coaching program using state and federal funds.

Guidance
Events

E-Rate 471 Workshop

Jan 23, 2025
Free

Learn and complete phase two of your E-Rate application with an E-Rate expert on hand. Tune in for full details on the information needed to complete this form, including discount calculations, costs of service, service

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center

E-Rate 471 Workshop

Jan 29, 2025
Free

Learn and complete phase two of your E-Rate application with an E-Rate expert on hand. Tune in for full details on the information needed to complete this form, including discount calculations, costs of service, service

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center

E-Rate 471 Workshop

Feb 4, 2025
Free

Learn and complete phase two of your E-Rate application with an E-Rate expert on hand. Tune in for full details on the information needed to complete this form, including discount calculations, costs of service, service

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center

E-Rate 471 Workshop

Feb 12, 2025
Free

Learn and complete phase two of your E-Rate application with an E-Rate expert on hand. Tune in for full details on the information needed to complete this form, including discount calculations, costs of service, service

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center

E-Rate 471 Workshop

Feb 20, 2025
Free

Learn and complete phase two of your E-Rate application with an E-Rate expert on hand. Tune in for full details on the information needed to complete this form, including discount calculations, costs of service, service

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center

E-Rate 471 Workshop

Mar 11, 2025
Free

Learn and complete phase two of your E-Rate application with an E-Rate expert on hand. Tune in for full details on the information needed to complete this form, including discount calculations, costs of service, service

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center
Articles

“That’s a wrap!” – Highlights from IETC 2020

The 27th annual Illinois Education and Technology Conference (IETC) wrapped up on Saturday, November 21. This year marked the conference’s first venture into the virtual realm, with all sessions, workshops, and networking held online. Read

AR/VRNetworkingProfessional LearningRobotics

“Keeping it real with real educators” – Takeaways from IETC 2021

The 28th annual Illinois Education and Technology Conference (IETC) wrapped up on November 19 after three days packed with exploring edtech’s latest integration strategies and best practices. Read up on highlights from this year’s conference,

Tim McIlvain
Tim McIlvain
Executive Director, Learning Technology Center
NetworkingProfessional Learning

2023 Education Conferences for Teachers, Administrators & Coaches

No matter your role in education and technology, conferences remain one of the best places to explore new strategies, discover new resources, and connect with peers. Check out all of these note-worthy edtech conferences coming

Lisa Schwartz
Lisa Schwartz
Regional Educational Technology Coordinator | West Central Region, Learning Technology Center
E-Rate

3 Keys to Remember While Finalizing your E-Rate Application

The 21-22 E-Rate Form 471 filing deadline is just around the corner on March 25, 2021. Don’t miss these important E-Rate program updates as you put the final touches on your institution’s submission.

Mindy Fiscus
Mindy Fiscus
Director of Government Affairs, Learning Technology Center
Accessibility

3 Ways You Can Add Digital Accessibility to Your Classroom Today

As it stands, some digital learning tools and communications are not effectively accessible by default. Fortunately, there are numerous ways that teachers like you can make their classroom’s digital content more inclusive for all learners.

Sam Fishel
Sam Fishel
Digital Content Manager, Learning Technology Center

Coming Soon – An All-New LTC Community Experience

In 2021, the Learning Technology Center remains committed to fostering collaboration within Illinois’ edtech community. That’s why we’re proud to announce our redesigned online Community!

Sam Fishel
Sam Fishel
Digital Content Manager, Learning Technology Center