While the education landscape continues to evolve to include new technology and learning solutions, it is essential that no communities are left behind due to a lack of connectivity or access to devices.
Discovery Education partnered with Comcast to conduct a study to identify gaps in how educators and families are navigating the breadth of affordable high-speed internet options available through the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). The ACP provides eligible families with a voucher for $30 per month ($75 per month in Tribal areas) to help pay for home internet. The findings revealed an urgent need for centralized training and in-school digital navigators to support digital equity efforts.
A new open access tool helps district leaders quickly and easily assess ACP eligibility and broadband adoption rates to tailor outreach strategies and direct families to resources that can assist in supporting enrollment.
Families may be eligible for the ACP benefit if a student living in the household attends a school participating in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program or if the student qualifies for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
School districts can play an important role in increasing awareness of the ACP and supporting families with determining ACP eligibility and enrollment. Click here for sample communications materials and social media copy that can be adapted to meet your needs.
In support of its commitment to prioritizing internet connectivity and its impact on education, Comcast partnered with Discovery Education to understand how home internet adoption impacts learning outcomes. We surveyed over 500 educators, administrators, and families for greater insight into how educators are bridging connectivity issues by harnessing the ACP.