Closing The Connectivity Gap

As more states enact policies requiring digital instructional materials and districts embrace online learning, it is critical that all students have an equitable education environment. School districts throughout the country, however, struggle to ensure adequate broadband access inside and outside of the classroom. One recent study found nearly 30 percent of students in rural areas don’t have access to fixed broadband at home, and the number is even higher — 35 percent— for students in remote rural areas.Sixteen percent of students in suburban areas still lack access.