Advancing Digital Equity and Classroom Consistency

The Challenge:

Advancing digital equity and classroom consistency   

As Palmdale School District grew, it faced challenges ensuring that all students—regardless of school site or neighborhood—had equal access to high-quality technology and learning tools. Classroom experiences varied widely, with inconsistent technology setups and limited integration between hardware and software systems. “We had haves and have-nots,” said Jim Smith, Manager of Information Services of Palmdale School District. “Our goal was to make sure every student, in every school, had the same opportunities to learn.” 

Teachers also struggled with fixed, wired technology that limited classroom flexibility. Students in lower grades had inconsistent access to devices and digital learning tools, while teachers managed outdated laptops and document cameras that hindered instructional creativity. The district’s goal was ambitious: standardize every classroom with a unified, flexible technology ecosystem that enhances instruction, supports accessibility programs and strengthens digital equity across all grade levels. 

Palmdale needed a partner capable of supporting large-scale logistics, custom configuration, and long-term collaboration. They turned to C1 to deliver and implement classroom technology at scale, ensuring every student and teacher had the same modern, connected learning experience district-wide. 

The Solution:

Building the modern connected classroom 

C1 worked closely with Palmdale School District to create a district-wide standard for classroom technology. Each classroom was equipped with a Promethean interactive panel on an adjustable stand, Palo Alto wireless connectivity, and integrated PCs with docking stations for teacher mobility. “We wanted our teachers to move freely and not be tethered to cables,” Smith explained. 

C1 deployed 800 Promethean panels and thousands of Dell laptops and Chromebooks, managing every step—from procurement and warehousing to configuration and delivery. The result was modern connected classrooms with consistent technology, regardless of location. C1 also helped Palmdale transition from iPads to cost-effective, two-in-one touch Chromebooks for a single technology solution that meets the requirements of students across all grade levels. 

Through close collaboration, C1 supported both instructional technology and infrastructure upgrades, including network modernization and wireless access optimization. The partnership even inspired C1 to expand its own service offerings based on Palmdale’s needs. “We’ve invented new processes and even new services together,” Smith said. “That’s what real partnership looks like.”

The Result:

Empowered teachers, engaged students, and digital equity for all  

The partnership between Palmdale School District and C1 has transformed learning environments across all schools. Today, every classroom supports a unified, flexible technology experience that enhances teaching and student engagement. Teachers benefit from wireless mobility, large interactive displays, and seamless access to digital content—tools that make lessons more interactive and inclusive. 

Students from transitional kindergarten to eighth grade now have equal access to technology, with every classroom outfitted for one-to-one learning through Chromebooks and Promethean panels. The introduction of two-in-one touch Chromebooks has improved digital literacy and helped even the youngest learners build confidence with typing, navigation, and collaboration tools. 

Palmdale's commitment to equity has also strengthened its academic programs, ensuring students with diverse needs have access to the same high-quality technology. "Technology is one of the areas where our teams feel equity across programs," Smith said. 

By working closely with C1, Palmdale School District has not only standardized technology—it has fostered a culture of innovation and inclusion that extends beyond the classroom, empowering students, teachers, and the community to thrive in a connected world.