Neighboring districts have also begun distributing 1:1 devices over the past 10 years, including in Douglas and Denver county schools.

While there are some similarities among the districts, each has taken a unique approach to the initiative. In Douglas County, every schools determines what device-use will look like; some schools provide devices, while others might eliminate the traditional school supplies list and ask students to bring devices instead, said communications officer Paula Hans.

Meanwhile, Denver Public Schools has just used the 1:1 initiative at select schools. Denver Public Schools then provides extra staff in participating schools, including technical support staff and digital coaches to help teachers effectively integrate technology into their curriculum.

Also unique, the Denver district collects the devices over summer for maintenance, said Lara Hussain, the program’s director at Denver Public Schools.

The districts all collaborate to share best practices, leading to a number of similarities from district to district, she said. Across the board, the districts share common goals as they create their programs: to promote digital literacy and ensure equity among students.

“We see technology as a fundamental right, so we want to provide equitable access and resources,” Hussain said.