The Hutto ISD board of trustees on Sept. 11 approved the purchase of new technology including academic assessment software and laptops to help student learning.

The board approved the purchases of new accelerated math and reading assessment software at cost of $74,292.

The district also received a green light to use $44,336 from Instructional Materials Allotment fund to buy Chromebooks, a type of small laptop. The allotment funds can be used to purchase textbooks for instructional technology. The Chromebook purchase is part of a project-based learning initiative, according to district documents.

"Hutto ISD is committed to developing students who can use innovations in their academic and professional pursuits," said Brandy Baker, executive director of school support. "The adoption of a [problem-based learning] model and the purchase of Chromebooks will allow Hutto students to increase their academic performance and attitudes toward math and science and problem-solving skills"

The board also invested in battery backups for its technology closet to guard against electrical surges.