May, 2013
NORTH PROVIDENCE – Mobile Internet service provider Mobile Beacon has launched its 4G mobile broadband donation program for educators on DigitalWish.org to help schools provide 24/6 mobile connectivity for teachers and staff.
The program also offers a method to provide out-of-school Internet access to underprivileged students at an affordable rate.
“Out-of-school Internet access is arguably as important to the overall quality of the learning experience as in-school access,” Katherine Messier, managing director for Mobile Beacon, said in a statement. “This program is designed to give schools maximum flexibility to decide how they can best make use our mobile broadband service.”
Messier added that the donated devices can be used by teachers, administrators, staff or students to provide Internet access both in and out of school.
“Connectivity is core requirement as student learning migrates online. We are so excited to be able to offer this program to schools for both teacher and student connectivity. Mobile Beacon is the ideal partner to help us usher in the new era of mobile learning that extends well beyond the walls of the classroom,” Heather Chirtea, executive director of Digital Wish, said in prepared remarks.
Through Mobile Beacon’s program, qualified public schools, 501(c)3 nonprofit schools and libraries will receive up to 11 donated 4G devices when they sign up for a 1-year unlimited 4G data plan for $10 per month per device.
Mobile Beacon is also offering schools in certain disaster recovery states (Connecticut, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island) up to 26 donated devices to help them rebuild following the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy.
According to a company release, teachers and school staff can choose any combination of 4G devices, including a Wi-Fi modem, USB modem, and mobile hotspot. Mobile Beacon offers assistance determining the best mix of devices based on the school’s planned use.
