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Qualifying Families Can Access Low-Cost Internet Service
Have you seen this short video featuring the 1:1 Distribution at Kimmons Junior High School?
It has generated good dialogue about the cost of home internet access. This subject came up as a part of Vision 2023 discussions in the Technology and Equity Strategic Action Teams in 2017. Prior to and as a result of the strategic planning process, the District is looking for creative and cost efficient ways to provide longer access to school connections. This might include extended library media hours and/or hotspot devices that can be checked-out to students when they need them.
However, one of the best and fastest opportunities for home internet access is that qualifying families in Fort Smith can purchase low cost internet service through Cox and AT&T. There is a good explanation on these Federally-funded programs at HighSpeedInternet.com and Broadbandnow.com. Both of these websites identify service providers by the zip code of the resident.
Here is a little information on the FSPS 1:1 Technology program:
FSPS began its 1:1 Technology Program as pilots at Ramsey Junior High School and Sunnymede and Morrison Elementary Schools. Now, all FSPS students in Grades 3-9 have take-home technology as a result.
Students receive a device that they use during the school year. They return it to the District at the end of the school year for maintenance and necessary updates, and then a student will get the same machine back when classes begin the next August.
Thanks to FS voters, the Millage 2018 Plan provides funds necessary to ensure that students in Grades 10-12 will receive devices in 2019-2020 and that FSPS has revenue to maintain this important initiative in the future.