Connecting students and families anew
For some students at the East Moline School District, the only place they can do their homework is in their parents’ car in the parking lot of a local fast food restaurant. “They don’t have quality access to WIFI otherwise,” said Kristin Humphries, the school district’s superintendent. “This is really an indication of inequity. For some students, learning stops at the school’s doors.”
Change is on the way, thanks to a comprehensive, multiphase plan to provide upgraded technology to students in the East Moline and United Township School Districts. The first phase will be supported by a Quad Cities Community Foundation Transformation Grant that will give roughly 100 students and their families access to quality internet in their homes.
“It’s my hope that this work will not only bridge the digital divide within our community, but also show local leaders that equitable access to technology holds the power to position students for long-term success in a largely digital world,” said Sherry Ristau, president and CEO of the Community Foundation.
For Humphries, the $100,000 grant is not only a huge step forward in the district’s dream to provide equity to students—it also speaks volumes to the community about the importance of providing equal opportunities for all students. “We’re going to light up a neighborhood with WIFI,” she said. “And we’re hoping that will show the community, local business leaders, and other potential donors that we can take on a project of this scope—and that it makes a difference. This grant is huge for us in so many ways.”
Even before the pandemic, the two districts envisioned technology upgrades for their students. Once COVID-19 forced remote learning, those upgrades became even more important. “Our teachers have done a wonderful job adjusting to challenging circumstances, but even before COVID, students were in need of quality WIFI in their homes in order to do their homework,” Humphries explained.
Jay C. Morrow, the United Township School District’s superintendent agreed, seeing the potential of this initiative to extend far beyond the pandemic. “Even after COVID is over, there is still going to be such a need for this,” he said. “Teachers have adapted so well to changing technology, but students are always going need quality WIFI in their homes to get their work done.”
More than 40 languages are spoken in the East Moline School District, Humphries added, and quality internet access allows both students and parents to learn another language, as well as search and apply for jobs. “Employers today are looking for a diverse workforce, and so these students and their families will be able to offer a lot to employers in terms of their perspective, ability to persevere, and to work together,” Humphries said.
Morrow agreed and added they are grateful to the Community Foundation for taking a chance on this project. “It demonstrates their commitment to enriching our community and helping us springboard into the future,” he said.