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1-to-1 device initiative launching in the fall
NCS Logo in a Chromebook

Every student in Newark City Schools will have access to a computer during the 2021-22 school year and beyond through a one-to-one device initiative. The district has purchased more than 3,100 Chromebooks with grant money — enough for every student in grades 6-12 — and will use existing devices to provide in-school access to all elementary students.


“The one-to-one initiative is a big step for the Newark City School District,” Superintendent David Lewis said. “We are excited that all students will have access to a device for the 21-22 school year.”


The $1.2 million purchase is made possible through many grants: $419,000 from the City of Newark’s COVID-relief funds; $535,000 from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund; and $270,000 from Special Education funds.


“We are thankful to the city of Newark for their generous donation that will benefit all students,” Lewis said. “The other grants made it possible to begin the initiative immediately, rather than phasing in over a number of years, without using any local tax dollars.”


Students in grades 6 through 12 will begin taking devices home at the start of the school year in a district-issued protective case. Students in grades K-5 will have a personal device in the classroom for their daily use. There may be times throughout the year where devices are sent home for instructional purposes as well.


“The one-to-one initiative will provide flexibility for teaching and learning in situations such as calamity days, extended absences, and more,” Lewis said.  “By all students having one device for their daily use, we hope to instill a sense of ownership and responsibility for the care of the devices.”


The district is developing guidelines for rolling out the one-to-one initiative. More information about device distribution and procedures will be communicated to parents as the 2021-22 school year approaches.