The impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing the way we operate, but it will not stop us from moving forward with engaging and powerful learning experiences. Despite the physical distance between teachers and students technology will provide a critical component to facilitate distance learning.
For those who are worried about the ability to stay connected to your community during this time whether it is accessibility to broadband/telephone service or financial hardship read the Keep Americans Connected Pledge where Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai designed a pledge for service providers to support.
For the next 60-days broadband and telephone service companies that support the pledge agree to:
- Not terminate service to any residential or small business customers because of their inability to pay their bills due to the disruptions caused by the coronavirus pandemic
- Waive any late fees that any residential or small business customers incur because of their economic circumstances related to the coronavirus pandemic
- Open its Wi-Fi hotspots to any American who needs them
The major United States carriers who have signed the pledge include—AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Visit their individual websites to learn more about how the carriers are supporting new and existing customers.
If you are unable to afford an internet service Charter Communications is offering households with K-12 or College students free Spectrum Broadband and Wi-Fi access along with installation for 60 days who do not already have a subscription.
Additionally, Comcast is offering qualifying low-income households 2-moths of free New Internet Essentials, and $9.95/month plus tax in the following months. Applications must be submitted before April 30, 2020. Plus, all new and existing customers can enjoy faster internet speed with 25 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream.
Parents need to determine which phone and cable providers are in their neighborhood and check the service provider website. You can click on the links above or visit the providers website as many of them have banners pointing you to their COVID-19 resources.