New Program Promises Internet Access to 50,000 Students

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 04/01/21

New York state has launched an emergency fund to provide an estimated 50,000 students with free internet access. Funding for "ConnectED NY" will come from philanthropic organizations Schmidt Futures and the Ford Foundation; the program, scheduled to run between May 2021 and June 2022, is being managed by Digital Promise.

The focus of the initiative will be on helping schools in economically poor districts -- those where the percent of students who are economically disadvantaged exceeds the state average. The program will provide free mobile hotspots and monthly data plans, to make available to students who need them. Where the hotspots won't work, the fixed internet options will be offered. Services will be provided by AT&T and other service providers.

"The past year has proven that without consistent and strong internet access, young people can't engage in learning at the level that's needed for success in today's world," said Jean-Claude Brizard, CEO of Digital Promise, in a statement. " We applaud the coming together of this public-private partnership to address inequity for New York's children and youth."

Interested districts can learn more on the ConnectED NY website.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • digital illustration of Estonia with glowing neural network-like connections spreading across the map

    Estonia to Roll Out ChatGPT Edu for all Secondary Schools

    In a nationwide artificial intelligence program dubbed "AI Leap 2025," the country of Estonia plans to provide free access to leading AI applications for all secondary school students and teachers. The initiative will launch with a rollout of ChatGPT Edu to 20,000 high school students in grades 10-11 and their 3,000 teachers, beginning Sept. 1.

  • pattern of icons for math and reading, including a pi symbol, calculator, and open book

    HMH Launches Personalized Path Solution

    Adaptive learning company HMH has introduced HMH Personalized Path, a K-8 ELA and math product that combines intervention curriculum, adaptive practice, and assessment for students of all achievement levels.

  • laptop screen displaying a typed essay, on a child

    McGraw Hill Acquires Essaypop Digital Learning Tool

    Education company McGraw Hill has announced the acquisition of Essaypop, a cloud-based writing tool that will enhance the former's portfolio of personalized learning capabilities.

  • teacher

    6 Policy Recommendations for Adopting AI in the Classroom

    The Southern Regional Education Board's Commission on AI in Education has published six recommendations on adopting artificial intelligence in schools, colleges, and universities. The guidance marks the commission's first release since it was established last February, with more recommendations planned in the coming year.