Low-cost technology to be offered to Bibb students
By Andrea Castillo
Starting Friday, families of low-income Bibb County students can sign up for low-cost Internet and computers, as well as free digital training.
Students at 23 Bibb County schools who receive free school lunches can sign up for the services through Connect2Compete, a public-private initiative launched by the Federal Communications Commission aimed at expanding access to technology.
Internet will be available for $9.95 a month for up to two years without installation costs or contract obligations. Families can also buy a desktop or laptop with Microsoft Office and Windows 7 for $150. They have until Dec. 15 to sign up for the program.
Connect2Compete is working with the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Cox Communications and information technology company Redemtech to implement Bibb County’s program.
The Knight Foundation gave $3 million for Connect2Compete’s work on the national level, said Beverly Blake, the Knight Foundation’s Macon program director.
“We’re delighted that Macon will be a leader in the pilot project,” Blake said
About the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. We believe that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more, visit www.knightfoundation.org.