Technology

What statement best describes your situation?

• My school switched to remote learning but I don't have a laptop.

• I cannot afford to buy access to the internet

"My school switched to remote learning but I don't have a laptop."

How can I get a laptop to do my school work online?

You can request a laptop for remote learning from One Simple Wish. Please note that you must currently be enrolled in school and have a contact name and phone number or email for a case worker who can verify your time in care.

Depending on where you live, you may have access to additional resources:

• If you live in California, are enrolled in school (middle school, high school, or college), and you are a current or former foster youth, iFoster may be able to help you with a smartphone, hotspot, or computer to access your classes. If you live outside of California, they may be able to help too.

• If you live in New York, the Department of Education is lending internet-enabled iPads to support remote learning for students.

• Check with your local and state educational systems to see what technology and internet access they are providing their students. Many school districts have begun distributing laptops (here are two examples in Tucson, AZ and Chicago, IL). For instance, the Mesa Public School District (the largest school district in Arizona) is purchasing laptops and internet for all K-6 students.

How can I get access to the tools I need to do my schoolwork?

• For software, students can now use SoftMaker Office NX Home for Windows, Mac and Linux free of charge.

• For books and research material, the Public Books Database is collecting a list of research materials and books that are publicly available to access for free during the coronavirus as students can no longer access libraries.

• You can also borrow and read e-books and audio books from your local library for free through the Libby App.

• The Colorado Child Welfare Training System has created an e-learning resource center to help people set up online learning environments.

"I cannot afford to buy access to the internet."

Are there free internet options available to me?

• A number of companies are making their WiFi hotspots available for free: Xfinity hotspots, Cox wireless hotspots, Spectrum wifi hotspots.
• You may qualify for two months of free Internet with Comcast, Cox, or Spectrum.
• Some providers are also increasing the data allowance, at no extra charge, for cell data and internet: T-Mobile, Sprint.
• A couple of options are available for free/low cost cell phones and plans:

  • Assurance Wireless
  • Lifeline
• More resources for free or affordable internet can be found here.

To qualify for Comcast's Internet Essentials, you must be eligible for public assistance programs such as the National School Lunch Program, Medicaid, or SNAP.

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