Office of Educational Technology (EdTech)

Educational Technology (also known as edtech) is the combination of information technology (hardware, software, data, and infrastructure) with sound teaching and learning practices. The goal of edtech is to purposefully and strategically use available resources to enhance the individual and collective educational experience, facilitate instruction and learning, and ultimately, support students and educators in lifelong learning.

The DESE EdTech team envisions a world where all K–12 students in Massachusetts regularly engage in opportunities to learn, explore, and innovate through relevant, contemporary technology and with well-prepared and inspired educators. With strategic and thoughtful planning and implementation, edtech has the potential to support the Department's educational vision and:

• ensure all students are known and valued,
• create learning experiences that are relevant, real-world, and interactive, and
• provide individualized supports that enable students to excel at grade level and beyond.

Our EdTech Goals:

The Office of Educational Technology provides guidance, resources, and support in three primary areas, which you can find more information about on the linked pages.

• Goal 1: Expand equitable access to technology, including sufficient bandwidth, 1:1 devices, and high-quality digital materials and experiences.
• Goal 2: Identify, evaluate, and promote effective uses of edtech that serve to enhance student learning.
• Goal 3: Leverage research and innovation in K–12 edtech that may provide solutions to persistent problems and support next generation learning.

Sustaining Progress in Access and Equity: EdTech Strategic Planning Guide

The Department, in partnership with local, state, and national stakeholders, developed the Sustaining Progress in Access and Equity: Edtech Strategic Planning Guide for district and school leaders in Massachusetts. Originally published in 2021 and updated in 2024, the guide offers strategic planning support for the strategic, equitable, and effective integration of edtech in K–12 schools.

The guide provides insights, recommendations, and resources on foundational edtech systems, and is designed to be flexible and adaptable to each district's unique mission, vision, and learning priorities. It should complement overall strategic plans, instructional visions, and budget planning efforts. DESE encourages district administrative teams to collectively assess and utilize the guidance to shape the future of edtech in their organizations.

Awards and Accomplishments

Massachusetts has received three SETDA State Achievement Awards in 2024, 2023, and 2022 for the categories of Digital Content, Equity of Access, and Digital Learning. These awards celebrate the impact of the Office of Edtech programs and projects including the Edtech Strategic Planning Guide, the EdTech Peer Learning Cohort, and the Edtech Systems Guide. The SETDA State Achievement Award recognizes outstanding initiatives from SETDA state and affiliate members and their teams that address meaningful challenges in teaching and learning.

Last Updated: July 21, 2025