Ensuring equity in education has long been a goal for educators. The need for efficient Internet at home during the pandemic highlighted the fact that we have a long way to go to address these disparities. Microsoft Education is trying to bridge this gap with several of their new products and initiatives. Microsoft Reimagine

Last December, Microsoft hosted a virtual event, Microsoft Reimagine. The event brought educators, changemakers and tech leaders together to share examples of inclusive education in action as well as offer resources and ideas on how to make learning more equitable. Other topics explored include the safety and security of school data, streamlining digital systems and harnessing computer science to prep students for the future. You can watch the event here.

Inclusive Tech Lab

Microsoft’s Inclusive Tech Lab is another branch of their work to increase inclusivity through technology. The Inclusive Tech Lab is intended to be a hub where Microsoft designers can collaborate with people with disabilities in order to create more accessible, innovative, inclusive tech solutions.

Microsoft Learn Educator Center

You likely already know that Microsoft offers a hearty catalog of resources for educators. Through the Microsoft Learn Educator Center, teachers and administrators can take modules on accessibility and inclusivity. From the nitty gritty, like learning how to better use Microsoft Reading Progress to increase fluency and courses on Dyslexia to broader subjects, like creating a more inclusive classroom and teaching special education via remote learning, this expansive library is a great resource for teachers.

Windows 11 SE

Windows 11 SE retains Windows’ dependable features while streamlining its design. Based on feedback from educators who saw the need for operating systems that are simpler and can be used on more affordable devices, Windows 11 SE was created to support students and educators in blended learning environments.

Designed for grades K-8 and featuring a cloud-first operating system, Windows 11 SE aims to limit distractions so students can stay focused. While the operating system includes several teacher standbys, like Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, One Note and Minecraft for Education, only administrators are able to download new apps. All the included Microsoft apps can be used offline, and OneDrive allows students to save files even when they don’t have internet access.

Windows 11 SE also includes features to support students with learning differences, like color filter and Immersive Reader, which supports students with difficulties reading. Through Microsoft Teams, second language learners have access to Microsoft Translator.

Surface Laptop SE

Designed for hybrid learning, the Surface Laptop SE comes preloaded with Windows 11 SE and Microsoft’s most affordable Surface PC to date. Battery life of up to 16 hours allows students to get through long days at school or home without losing power. The laptop comes equipped with a high-res camera for virtual meetings, and is designed to fit comfortably in students’ backpacks.

Reach out to us to discuss how Microsoft's latest tech innovations could benefit your school!