Internet Access for Families

IUSD  has invested in building out a robust wireless network at our schools and have even extended wireless coverage to our childcare centers run through ICCP.  Our annual technology survey showed that 98% of students that responded have access to high-speed internet at home.  For those families that don't have access at home, we wanted to share a few resources that could help provide affordable options to help families connect.

High-Speed Home Internet Options

In addition to their regular internet plans, several local providers offer free or low-cost internet for families who qualify for public assistance.  Please see the links below for more information on these programs: 

Access from AT&T
Cox Communications - Connect 2 Compete
Spectrum Internet Assist 

Some households may also qualify for further discounts through government rebate programs.  For more information, please see the Lifeline Program website. 

FCC's Emergency Broadband Benefit - Effective May 14, 2021

The Emergency Broadband Benefit will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.

Full program details can be found at: https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit

Using Cellular Service for Internet Access for Other Devices

Many cellular plans and providers will allow you to use your cell phone to provide an internet connection for other devices (e.g., a Chromebook).  See below for instructions on how to set up a phone as a hotspot/wireless connection.  Depending on your plan, data charges may apply.

How to set up a hotspot on an Apple iPhone
Share a mobile connection on an Android phone

Additional Options in Response to COVID-19

Many local telecommunications providers have made commitments to customers in response to COVID-19,  including increasing bandwidth, relaxing limitations on data, and reducing or eliminating overage charges.  The goal is to help students maintain access to educational resources during this shift to online learning solutions.  Please contact your provider for specific offerings.  We've included some links to their resource pages below:

AT&T
T-Mobile
Verizon

Internet Options through IUSD

We understand that all of our students may experience periodic outages or slowness with their home internet connections.  Internet providers throughout the country have struggled to meet the demands of the number of people working and learning remotely.  For sporadic internet issues, please communicate directly with your child's teacher when/if it becomes a barrier to participation in-class activities. 

IUSD will provide internet access for students who do not have any internet access, whose internet access consistently interferes with class participation, or who require access to participate in schoolwork or distance learning activities.  Families may request a filtered hotspot from the district by completing our Internet Access Support Survey.