Smart Start 2.0
Smart Start 2.0 supports K–8 teachers through professional development in computer science, engineering, and educational technology to build in-house expertise and support colleagues across New York.
Funder: New York State Education Department
Due Dates: November 24, 2026 (Questions) | December 8, 2026 (Optional notice of intent and Q&A posting) | December 22, 2026, 5:00 PM Eastern Time (Application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $125,000, $250,000, or $500,000 annually for three years; $18 million total program funding
Summary: Supports innovative professional development and support for K–8 teachers in computer science, engineering, and educational technology.
Key Information: Applicants must partner with a qualified nonprofit or higher education PD provider and their Regional Economic Development Council.
Description
Smart Start 2.0, administered by the New York State Education Department (NYSED), funds the development, implementation, and sharing of innovative, sustainable professional development programs for K–8 teachers. The program builds expertise in computer science, engineering, and/or educational technology so teachers can become in-house experts and support colleagues in their schools and districts.
Programs must align with New York State’s Computer Science and Digital Fluency Learning Standards and address regional workforce needs. Supported approaches include cohort and train-the-trainer models, alongside other innovative models that reach large numbers of teachers. The program emphasizes equitable access, digital literacy, interdisciplinary learning, and sharing resources so other New York districts can replicate successful programs.
