In October, a National Coalition to Close the Digital Divide solicited public comment from educators, students, and families nationwide. Individuals shared their personal stories re: slow, inconsistent internet and how it has impacted their ability to access their virtual learning on docket “20-269”. Members can still submit public comment on this docket.
BEE is also calling for public comment on the FCC Docket associated with expanding the discounts for internet access (“e-rates”) to include home internet access given these unprecedented times when students are attending school virtually at home. Currently e-rates are extended only to schools and libraries.
Record your story & ask for an email confirmation.
Review the submission & “submit”.
Together we filed over 60% of the express comment on the docker considering how inadequate internet is impacting students access to education.
Make sure the FCC hears your story!
If you need help: contact BEE at baltedequity@gmail.com or book office hours.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused Americans across the U.S. to rethink how they approach their day-to-day lives. As education has moved to a virtual setting, it has become apparent that having access to reliable and affordable internet and technology are prerequisites for students to receive quality education. Disparities in remote learning are indisputable for low-income and rural districts. According to FCC guidelines, the current minimum broadband speed requirements are 25 Mbps download speeds and 3 Mbps upload speeds (25/3).
However, these speeds are insufficient. Students cannot rely on the minimum broadband speed to attend class online. Internet service providers are exacerbating racial and economic inequities in the United States by denying students access to high quality broadband.
