Cox, Arizona Department Of Education Expand Affordable Internet Program

Published: Friday, December 11, 2020 - 8:38am
Updated: Friday, December 11, 2020 - 8:39am
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Howard Fischer/Capitol Media Services
Kathy Hoffman at a news conference on July 23, 2020.

Remote learning has come with many obstacles, but perhaps the most challenging has been making sure every student has reliable internet access. Starting Friday, a new resource will be available to some low-income families.

The Arizona Department of Education has partnered with Cox Communications to increase Internet speed for eligible families. Cox already offers a low-cost internet plan called Connect2Compete. Those receiving government assistance, like free and reduced-price lunch, SNAP benefits, or public housing can get the plan for $9.95 a month.

But Arizona Superintendent Kathy Hoffman said they’re now doubling the plan’s internet speed at no additional cost.

“I am hopeful that students can have better connectivity when trying to access their school’s curriculum, so whether that’s through video conferencing with their teachers or peers or being able to download materials or watch videos," Hoffman said. 

The idea is to address an equity issue, so students of all backgrounds and financial circumstances have a reliable connection for remote learning.

“Cox primarily serves the metro Phoenix area, Pinal County and southern Arizona," Hoffman said. "So this is not going to completely solve the digital divide for the whole state of Arizona, but it’s a step in the right direction.”

Thousands of Arizona students are already using the low-cost plan. To see if you qualify for the Connect2Compete plan, visit the Cox website.

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