Bridging the Digital Divide: Richard Carranza on Equity & EdTech

Richard Carranza’s journey in education is one of resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to equity. Having led some of the nation’s largest school districts, including New York City, Houston, and San Francisco, Carranza has seen firsthand how systemic challenges can create barriers to learning. Now, as Chief of Strategy and Global Development at IXL Learning, he is focused on using educational technology to level the playing field for all students.

On a recent episode of the Learning Can’t Wait podcast, Carranza sat down to discuss the role of EdTech in ensuring every student has access to high-quality, personalized learning experiences. His insights serve as a wake-up call for educators, policymakers, and school leaders who are striving to create a more inclusive and equitable education system.

The Challenges of Traditional Education Models

Carranza’s experience as an educator has shown him that traditional classroom structures often leave many students behind. He recalled how rigid curriculums and one-size-fits-all teaching methods fail to account for the diverse needs of students, particularly those from underserved communities.

“We have to meet students where they are, not where we think they should be,” Carranza emphasized. “Technology gives us an unprecedented opportunity to personalize learning and make education more inclusive.”

Many schools struggle with outdated systems that do not accommodate students who learn at different paces. Some students may need extra support, while others are ready to accelerate. This gap can lead to disengagement, frustration, and ultimately, inequitable outcomes. But with the right tools, technology can change that trajectory.

How EdTech is Personalizing Learning

Carranza highlighted how platforms like IXL Learning provide tailored learning experiences for students by using real-time data analytics. These tools assess students’ strengths and areas for improvement, allowing educators to customize instruction and intervention strategies.

“For a teacher with 30 students in a classroom, it’s impossible to individualize instruction for each student manually,” he explained. “But with AI-driven platforms, we can provide every child with a personalized learning path that adapts to their needs.”

The impact of this technology goes beyond just academic achievement. By allowing students to learn at their own pace and celebrate progress, EdTech fosters a greater sense of confidence and belonging. Carranza pointed out that when students feel seen and supported, they are more likely to stay engaged and persist through challenges.

Addressing the Digital Divide

Of course, leveraging technology to enhance learning is only effective if all students have access to it. The pandemic exposed deep disparities in digital access, with millions of students lacking reliable internet or devices for remote learning. While many districts have made strides in closing this gap, challenges remain.

Carranza believes that closing the digital divide requires a multi-faceted approach. Schools must not only provide students with devices but also ensure they have access to broadband internet and digital literacy skills. Partnerships with private companies, local governments, and community organizations can help bridge these gaps.

“Education is a civil right,” Carranza stated. “If we don’t address these inequities, we are failing our students before they even step into the classroom.”

The Future of Learning: A Call to Action

As education continues to evolve, Carranza urges schools to embrace technology as a tool for empowerment rather than a replacement for traditional teaching. He envisions a future where every student has the resources they need to succeed—regardless of zip code, background, or economic status.

For educators and school leaders looking to implement more personalized and equitable learning strategies, Carranza offers a clear message: be proactive, embrace innovation, and never lose sight of the students who need support the most.

Want to dive deeper into Carranza’s perspective? Check out some of his recent articles:

• Educating for our new normal: Rethinking the time, place, and means of K-12 learning
• Educating for our new normal: How the end of illiteracy can begin now
• What a data-driven K-12 leader prioritizes to drive change

The future of education is unfolding before us, and leaders like Richard Carranza are ensuring that technology is used not just as a tool, but as a force for equity, access, and student success.