The digital divide is creating a learning gap
The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the digital divide's toll. Right now, up to 16 million students in the U.S. don't have access to the technology they need to participate in distance learning. Lack of access to the internet and devices during school closures puts students at risk of significant learning loss. Communities of color and rural communities are disproportionately affected, and it's not just students—up to 400,000 teachers are without adequate internet access for teaching remotely.
Advocating to connect all students
Internet access is essential for each and every student and young learner today. Wide Open School and our partners are committed to closing the digital divide for good, starting with a national campaign to Connect All Students. Wide Open School will continue to work to ensure that students, their families, and their teachers can access technology where they live and learn.
Get free or low-cost internet today
If you or anyone you know is struggling to get set up for distance learning or unable to access low-cost internet or devices, there are resources to help. You can find a list of providers and more useful info in the Family & Teacher Center. Learn how families qualify, what kinds of discounts are available, and more.