To help with remote or "distance" learning, the City of Mesa is allocating approximately $7 million from Mesa CARES to provide technology assistance to K-6 students in Mesa. The program will provide funding to purchase laptop computers and offer technology support to students needing the equipment to continue learning from home.
"The COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call and showed the challenges many students have to effectively learn remotely," Mayor John Giles said. "This program will provide the technology assistance many Mesa students need."
A recent survey discovered that approximately 7,000 families in Mesa don't have internet access or access to devices for elementary age school children to use at home.
"Access to the internet and devices such as laptops is a huge equalizer, not only for learning but also for access to services provided in our community for students and their families," Mesa Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Dr. Andi Fourlis said. "This program to help K-6 students and their families is much needed and greatly appreciated."
Approximately 9,000 laptop devices are being purchased for K-6 students in the Mesa Public Schools. Devices are also being purchased for students in schools from the Gilbert district that are located in Mesa.
As part of the program, the City of Mesa will also explore the feasibility of a city-wide fiber connected system with the goal of every home having access to Wi-Fi.
The Mesa CARES Initiative supports individuals, families, and businesses impacted by COVID-19. Funding comes from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Public Information and Communications
Contact: Kevin Christopher
Tel. 480-644-4699
kevin.christopher@mesaaz.gov