September 14, 2022 For Immediate Release
City Schools is committed to sharing pathways for students to access the internet away from school. During the COVID pandemic, this included providing hotspots and other connectivity options. While that commitment continues, City Schools will reduce the amount of free data available via its T-Mobile hotspots effective October 15.
Students that use the hotpots to connect to district online software or for basic web browsing are not expected to experience any difference in their work. But students that use hotspots to connect to non-city school supported websites with live streaming or recorded video are likely to burn through the allotted 8GB of data (per month) and may need to pick up the additional cost for more capacity.
However, families seeking greater data capacity after that date has the option to apply for discounted internet service through the Affordable Connectivity Program.
To apply for the ACP discount, visit affordableconnectivity.gov or call 1-877-384-2575 to request an application. As a bonus, the ACP even offers a one-time discount of $100 for a laptop, desktop, or tablet purchased through a participating provider (i.e. Comcast, Verizon, T-Mobile, etc.) with a $10 - $50 co-pay. For more information and to sign up, visit affordableconnectivity.gov and be sure to indicate that your child is eligible for free and reduced lunch through the National School Lunch Program.
Additionally, should any student have trouble completing school assigned/approved work (e.g., CTE assigned engineering simulation), please call the Student and Parent Hotline at (443) 984-2001. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.