Key points:
Even before the pandemic, education leaders championed the necessity of strong internet connectivity in schools and communities. This need skyrocketed with the nation’s move to online and hybrid learning during peak pandemic years, and now, strong and reliable connectivity remains a must-have for every educator and student.
A high-speed, reliable internet connection can elevate technology-driven learning and harness new learning potential, said Verizon experts during an eSchool News webinar on connectivity, moderated by eSN Content Director Kevin Hogan.
The webinar delves into the current state of and future possibilities for technology-driven education, exploring solutions to elevate digital infrastructures while maximizing E-rate funding to foster inclusive, secure, and efficient learning environments. Paramount to the discussion is the critical role of increased bandwidth in empowering schools to harness the potential of new technologies.
Cybersecurity is one of K-12’s biggest technology challenges–and strong connectivity can help meet this challenge. “One of the biggest things we learned during the pandemic is how we protect our kids now that we’re encouraging them to use online and digital tools. How do we make sure our kids are safe?” noted Kim Mirabella, Vice President, Business Development for Verizon.
And with 17 million households still lacking internet access–leaving students unable to get online at home for research, homework, and other tasks–digital equity is another issue requiring a solution grounded in connectivity, particularly as funding programs expire.
“We’ve had a lot of government programs, grant programs, and funding, but as those programs start to wind down, the problems don’t go away,” Mirabella said.
Watch the full webinar here.
