CTL customer, the Murray City School District, recently rolled out a private wireless network solution to ensure their home-insecure students could achieve equal digital access. Learn about the challenges, the ingenious solution, and why this program received CoSN’s “2025 Community Leadership Award for Digital Equity” at its annual conference in Seattle.
The Murray City School District in Utah initially aimed for a one-to-one device rollout but quickly discovered a significant digital divide among its students. Many lacked reliable home internet access, and the number of students experiencing home insecurity, which includes a lack of stable housing and electricity, had drastically increased. This lack of connectivity and essential resources like charged devices severely hindered students' ability to participate in online learning, leading to academic setbacks. The district realized that providing devices alone was insufficient; students also needed consistent internet access and a way to keep their devices charged.
To address these challenges, the district implemented a multi-faceted solution. They upgraded their network to provide LTE connectivity, extending internet access beyond the school's immediate vicinity. They partnered with CTL to provide LTE-enabled Chromebooks and installed charging lockers at school, enabling students to discreetly swap discharged devices for fully charged ones. Social workers and mental health professionals played a crucial role in identifying and distributing these resources to the students most in need. This comprehensive approach ensured that even students living in unstable environments could access educational materials and communicate with their teachers.
The program's impact was immediate and profound, with improved student engagement, communication, and academic performance. The district emphasized the cost-effectiveness of the initiative, highlighting that a relatively small investment could significantly improve educational equity. They hope their model will inspire other districts to adopt similar creative solutions, recognizing the importance of prioritizing student needs and leveraging technology to bridge the digital divide. The ultimate vision is to ensure that all learners, regardless of their circumstances, have the connectivity and resources they need to succeed.
