Creating Equitable Learning for All—One Classroom at a Time

At SMART, we believe in inspiring greatness and driving impact that goes beyond the ordinary. To support the 50% of the world's population that is still offline, SMART has partnered with the non-profit N50 and its partner organizations. This collaboration focuses on building sustainable ecosystems that drive long-term digital access, education, and inclusion for the 3.1 billion people without digital access or the ability to contribute to the global workforce. Some of these schools are closer to home than others.

As students at Monarca Academy gear up for a new school year, they’ll return to more than just classrooms—they’ll return to new opportunities in STEAM. Earlier this year, SMART joined forces with N50 and Arrow Electronics to launch a new computer lab at the school in Indianapolis. This space, introduced in May, opens up access to digital learning, future-ready skills, and meaningful connections right in the heart of the community.

Monarca Academy, a charter school middle school within Indianapolis Public Schools, is redefining learning by making creation and exploration the centerpiece of its student-centered mission. Located in an urban area and serving a diverse student body, Monarca emphasizes project-based learning and is committed to providing access to STEAM learning experiences to its students. With the strong emphasis on math, science, visual and performing arts, Monarca wants to open up a future of possibilities for their students matched only by their imaginations. Monarca’s students consistently demonstrate intrinsic motivation, enthusiasm, and a strong commitment to problem-solving, even tackling complex multi-step challenges independently. 

The goal of the N50 project launched here is to provide even more opportunities for the students to be exposed to the STEAM skills they need to be competitive in a modern workforce. The computer lab provided not just  PC workstations, SMART boards, a 3D printer Lumio and Learning Upgrade software, robotics and SAM Labs coding kits, but also opened up new ways for students to learn and collaborate. Students can now work together at a SMART board to connect inputs and outputs to power robotic cars. Lumio allows students to collaborate digitally both inside and outside of the classroom. Students can also practice and reinforce skills using game based activities in Lumio. Learning Upgrade allows students to close learning gaps while working at their own pace in an environment that uses music to anchor learning. 

The new computer lab champions inclusive learning by providing visual tools and hands-on creation opportunities that reduce language barriers, empowering all students to achieve success regardless of their native language. Partnering with local companies such as Five Star Technology Solutions and Empower Learning, LLC, ensure that teachers receive ongoing support and training to successfully adopt and fully realize the potential of these new tools to impact student learning.

The collaborative efforts of N50, Arrow, SMART and many more as part of the EdTech for All Initiative, as seen at Monarca Academy, demonstrate a tangible commitment to digital equity. By providing STEAM tools as well other essentials, such as furniture,  this initiative directly addresses the digital gap and empowers students with crucial STEAM skills. This project at Monarca Academy not only enhances learning opportunities but also fosters inclusivity, paving the way for these motivated students to confidently navigate and contribute to the modern, technology-driven world.

Want to see how SMART is driving digital equity in classrooms around the world? Explore more impact stories:

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