Funds can be used to train teachers, administrators, and staff on how to integrate technology effectively. This includes:

• In-Person & Virtual Training (ESC-provided workshops, vendor-led training, or self-paced courses)

  • Google Workspace for Education Bootcamps (Google for Education Certification Training)

  • Microsoft Innovative Educator Program (Microsoft 365 for teachers)

  • Apple Teacher Learning Center (iPad & Mac classroom integration)

  • ISTE Certification for Educators (Technology standards and best practices)

• Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Training

  • CISA Cybersecurity Awareness Training (Free government training)

  • CoSN Cybersecurity for Schools (Best practices for IT leaders)

  • Linewize or GoGuardian (Tools that help protect student data)

• Blended & Online Learning Pedagogy

  • EdTechTeacher Webinars (Instructional design for hybrid classrooms)

  • Common Sense Education (Digital citizenship & media literacy)

Funds can be used to improve digital learning environments but cannot replace general IT expenses. 

• Learning Management Systems (LMS) & Student Engagement Platforms

  • Canvas, Schoology, Google Classroom, Microsoft Teams for Education, Seesaw

  • Gamified learning tools: Kahoot!, Quizizz, Blooket, Gimkit

• Cloud-Based Collaboration & Productivity Tools

  • Google Workspace for Education, Microsoft 365, Dropbox for Education, Box for Education

  • Video conferencing: Zoom for Education, Webex, Google Meet

• Network & Infrastructure Improvements (with justification)

  • Upgrading classroom connectivity (E-Rate eligible Wi-Fi enhancements, Google Fiber, Cisco Networking Solutions)

  • Cloud-based security solutions (GoGuardian, Securly, Lightspeed Systems)

Non-Allowable Expenses

• Routine IT maintenance (e.g., updating firewalls, fixing servers)

• Broadband and internet service fees

+ Special Note:

• • If a district is implementing Google Workspace as part of its foundational IT infrastructure (e.g., domain setup, admin controls, security configurations, compliance monitoring), then it aligns with infrastructure support.

  • Google Admin Console, security settings, email systems, and data management are all considered core infrastructure rather than just a learning tool.

Subscription Service for Learning:

• • If the district is primarily using Google Workspace tools (Docs, Slides, Classroom, Drive, etc.) for instructional purposes, it can also fall under Effective Use of Technology for digital learning and professional development.

  • This would justify funding under software and instructional support services that enhance student learning.

Ultimately, how the district categorizes Google Workspace depends on its primary function in the funding request. If the purchase is tied to security, administration, and infrastructure needs, it aligns with technology infrastructure. If it's being leveraged primarily for teaching, collaboration, and digital learning, it would fall under subscription services that aid in learning.

Programs that teach students safe and responsible technology use.

• Cybersecurity Awareness & Training

  • Cyber.org, Common Sense Education, iKeepSafe, Be Internet Awesome (Google)

  • Monitoring & filtering software: Bark for Schools, GoGuardian Admin, Linewize

• Digital Wellness & Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

  • EverFi Digital Wellness, Character Strong, Second Step Digital Citizenship

  • Cyberbullying prevention: StopBullying.gov resources, NetSmartz

Title IV, Part A funds can be used for adaptive, engaging digital learning tools that support personalized instruction. Examples include:

• Math & ELA Intervention Platforms

  • DreamBox Learning (K-8 adaptive math program)

  • i-Ready (Assessment-driven math & reading instruction)

  • IXL Learning (Skill-building for various subjects)

• STEM & Coding Programs

  • Code.org & Tynker (Computer science and coding)

  • LEGO Education SPIKE Prime (Robotics & engineering)

  • Sphero Edu & Ozobot (Programmable robots for K-12)

• Reading & Literacy Tools

  • Lexia Core5 (Personalized reading intervention)

  • Newsela (Standards-aligned articles with adjustable reading levels)

  • Epic! for Schools (Digital library for elementary students)

• Learning Management Systems (LMS) & Collaboration Tools

  • Google Classroom & Google Workspace for Education Plus (Integrated tools for teaching and learning)

  • Canvas or Schoology (Full-featured LMS solutions)

  • Seesaw for Schools (Early childhood and elementary student portfolios)

+ Subscription Tip: Recurring software costs (like Google Workspace for Education Plus) can be funded if they support instructional goals and professional learning.

Technology Infrastructure & Devices:

• • If a district is implementing Google Workspace as part of its foundational IT infrastructure (e.g., domain setup, admin controls, security configurations, compliance monitoring), then it aligns with infrastructure support.

  • Google Admin Console, security settings, email systems, and data management are all considered core infrastructure rather than just a learning tool.

Subscription Service for Learning:

• • If the district is primarily using Google Workspace tools (Docs, Slides, Classroom, Drive, etc.) for instructional purposes, it can also fall under Effective Use of Technology for digital learning and professional development.

  • This would justify funding under software and instructional support services that enhance student learning.

Ultimately, how the district categorizes Google Workspace depends on its primary function in the funding request. If the purchase is tied to security, administration, and infrastructure needs, it aligns with technology infrastructure. If it's being leveraged primarily for teaching, collaboration, and digital learning, it would fall under subscription services that aid in learning.

Encouraging STEM engagement through hands-on technology.

• Robotics & Coding Kits

  • Sphero Bolt, LEGO Mindstorms, VEX Robotics, Ozobot Evo, Makeblock mBot

  • Coding platforms: CodeHS, Tynker, Scratch, Swift Playgrounds

• 3D Printing & Maker Spaces

  • Ultimaker 3D Printers, Dremel 3D, Prusa Research, Tinkercad (AutoDesk)

  • Hands-on maker tools: Makey Makey, littleBits, Arduino

• Augmented Reality (AR) & Virtual Reality (VR)

  • Merge EDU, ClassVR, Google Expeditions, Nearpod VR

  • STEM simulation software: Labster, PhET Interactive Simulations, zSpace

+Tip: Your ESC can help districts select STEM tools and train teachers on classroom implementation! 

Encouraging family involvement in student learning through digital tools.

• Parent Communication Platforms

  • Remind, ClassDojo, ParentSquare, TalkingPoints (for multilingual families)

  • Digital newsletters: Smore for Education, Wakelet, Canva for Educators

• Translation & Accessibility Tools

  • Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, Snap&Read, Texthelp Read&Write

  • Screen readers & accessibility: JAWS, NVDA, Immersive Reader (Microsoft)

• Family Digital Literacy Workshops

  • Common Sense Education Family Guides, Google Be Internet Awesome Family Edition

  • Community learning platforms: ParentPowered Ready4K, Learning Heroes

You may only utilize a maximum of 15% of your funds for the following technology purchases:

• Hardware Purchases (Unless Directly Supporting an Educational Initiative)

  • Personal student devices (Chromebooks, iPads, laptops)

  • Interactive whiteboards (SMART Boards, Promethean Boards)

  • Classroom projectors and TVs

• Internet & General Technology Infrastructure

  • Routine broadband costs

  • Firewall & general cybersecurity services

🚫 Non-Allowable Uses of Title IV, Part A Funds 

• Entertainment, Extracurricular & Non-Educational Technology

  • Video streaming services (Netflix, Disney+, Hulu)

  • Video game consoles (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch)

  • Software for athletics or extracurricular programs

• Administrative & Office Software

  • Payroll and HR management tools

  • General office productivity software outside instructional use