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MULTIPLE APPROACHES

AIM TO ACHIEVE 100%

INTERNET ACCESS

Multiple approaches are required to close the internet gap. The Educational
Technology and Performance Accountability Departments have been
instrumental in bringing high-speed internet to the underserved. Where
communication services are available, negotiations have produced low-cost
connectivity options for students. In widely dispersed areas of the county,
purchases of hot spot devices have proven to be the best option. For a large
segment of the under-served student population, an innovative solution is
rolling out in collaboration with six local governments to build mesh networks.
This involves mounting base stations on poles or elevated structures in high-
density neighborhoods. IT then purchases WiFi extenders which capture the
signal for students’ homes. Local businesses and foundations are lending
support for these innovations. FPL donated 1,000 utility poles to mount
transmitters. Over $900,000 has been donated to an Education Foundation
drive to purchase WiFi extenders. The District also equipped 50 buses with
WiFi capabilities available to students when being transported to and
from school.

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