English (USA)
Indianapolis, IN – May 23, 2025 — SMART Technologies, a global leader in interactive education solutions, is proud to support the N50 Project and the EdTech for All initiative in launching a new Digital Community Lab at Monarca Academy. This project brings thoughtfully selected technology into classrooms to foster inclusive, student-centered learning around the world.
At the heart of this initiative is a shared mission: to ensure that educational technology does more than simply appear in classrooms—it transforms them. Through collaboration with N50 partners, the lab was purposefully designed to serve as a catalyst for inclusive teaching and meaningful student engagement.
Monarca Academy is expanding their digital capabilities with the addition of their new Digital Community Lab. Equipped with 20 workstations powered by Intel-based N50 Connectivity Kits, ApplianSys EDUGATE networking, bilingual AI tools from World Wide Technology, and SMART’s latest interactive displays, the lab fosters student agency and creativity through multimodal learning. It supports both day-to-day instruction and specialized programs like robotics, ensuring all students can engage and be included.
Students and teachers also gain access to interactive lessons in Lumio, Learning Upgrade’s personalized digital learning tools, and SAM Labs’ hands-on robotics kits, enabling them to deepen their robotics education while strengthening real-world STEM capabilities.
“Access alone isn’t enough,” said Jeff Lowe, SMART Technologies EVP. “We believe in empowering communities by connecting pedagogy and purpose with technology. It’s not just about what our products do, it’s about what learners can do with them.
Five Star, a trusted Indiana-based SMART partner, played a pivotal role not only in installation, but in delivering professional development and sustained teacher support. Their ongoing involvement ensures that technology is fully integrated into their teaching practice and supports their academic and inclusive learning goals.
The lab officially opened on May 20, 2025, with a celebration at the school featuring a guest appearance by Arrow McLaren IndyCar driver Pato O’Ward, who helped highlight how technology and inspiration can fuel big dreams—whether in the classroom or on the racetrack.
Leaders at Monarca Academy shared:
“What makes Monarca special isn’t just its tech or its test scores—it’s the belief that every student, no matter their background, deserves a place to create, contribute, and be heard. This lab isn’t a gift—it’s a tool in their hands.”
As Monarca Academy continues its digital journey, this initiative stands as a powerful example of how the right tools, training, and partnerships can advance equity, empowerment, and opportunity for all learners.
About SMART Technologies
SMART Technologies is a pioneering force in the development of interactive technology solutions. Renowned for SMART Board® interactive displays and comprehensive software offerings, the company is dedicated to creating engaging and collaborative learning and working environments, creating connections that matter for users worldwide since 1987. With a focus on quality, innovation, and inclusion, SMART Technologies continues to drive advancements in education and business technology worldwide.