Risky Business

In today's educational landscape, the integration of technology has revolutionized the learning process, fundamentally altering how students learn. Devices and learning have become virtually inseparable, shaping modern educational institutions.

Because of the critical role technology now plays in learning, the concept of “tech equity” has become a focal point for K-12 administrators across the country. Making sure every student, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to access and use technology is crucial.

What is Tech Equity?

According to the Nation Center for Education Statistics (NCES), tech equity addresses disparities in students' educational experiences and outcomes resulting from technology use, considering various factors such as English language learner status, disability status, geographic location, race/ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and more. 

The goal of tech equity is to mitigate these disparities and ensure that all students have equitable access to technology and opportunities for learning.

While research into the specific datapoints surrounding learning outcomes and technology is ongoing, the overall takeaway is clear: consistent technology access is critical for today’s K-12 students. 

How Device Protection Plans Help Empower Students and Tech Equity

Achieving K-12 tech equity can be a complex puzzle with no single "silver bullet" solution. But one piece of the puzzle that K-12 administrators can more easily control is device protection or insurance plans.

These play a crucial role in promoting tech equity by addressing the everyday challenges students encounter in maintaining and safeguarding their devices. These plans expand beyond the standard manufacturer warranties and can cover accidental damage, parts and labor, mechanical and electrical failure, theft, and more.

Equally important to the coverages themselves is the efficiency of the repair networks and processes that support them; timely service repairs and readily available backup devices enhance the effectiveness of protection plans and in turn tech equity efforts.

As a result, schools can create a level playing field where every student can fully engage in digital learning without the fear of extended disruptions caused by inoperable devices.

We know that navigating protection plan procurement can sometimes be complex for school administrators and IT directors. To assist, we've created a K-12 Tech Insurance Buyer’s Guide that is designed to help you navigate the process, identify the right questions to ask, and ultimately select the most suitable service provider for your needs.