(Des Moines, IA) -- Des Moines Public School District is equipping its fleet of more than 135 yellow school buses with free Wi-Fi for more than 14,000 students and staff. The district says a partnership with the Federal Communications Commission, allows for E-Rate funding to be used, covering 90% of the project cost.
“Many of our students spend a lot of time on school buses,” said Transportation Director Samantha Sonnichsen. “Now students will have the opportunity to access Wi-Fi and complete homework for the next day.”
The Wi-Fi systems will not only allow students to connect to the internet, but cameras on buses can be monitored live during emergencies improving safety for everyone on board. Drivers and associates can also use Wi-Fi to find alternative routes during heavy traffic or adverse weather.
“We live in a time where Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” said Associate Superintendent Matt Smith, who leads the Division of School Support Services. “By equipping our buses with Wi-Fi, we are enhancing the safety of our travels and ensuring that all students have equitable access to the academic resources they need, even on the go.”
Crews will begin installing the equipment in September and conclude later this Fall.
The Des Moines School District is the largest in the state, with nearly 31,000 students.