This pandemic has really shined a spotlight on the lack of reliable internet throughout the district. We have families divided into haves and have nots, based upon where they live and the availability of affordable internet access. We have many families who have internet yet, when students need to zoom or multiple students within the family need internet all day, capabilities are clearly not sufficient. In some areas throughout the district, this subpar internet is all that is available or affordable.

Many parents have resorted to either taking their students to grandparents or other houses to use their internet, or using their phones as a hotspot, accumulating fees, and running out of service. Even then, if multiple students were using the internet, access was slow or inconsistent and not conducive for the educational programming we are trying to provide for our students.

The Penns Valley Education Foundation has partnered with the district to help provide internet service to those who need it. Because of their support, we are able to provide internet service in the form of a mobile hotspot! Their donation gives us the ability to remotely educate students who would otherwise be stuck at home. We have had numerous families in appreciative tears because their child/children were finally able to participate in class. Due to the pandemic, one family could not attend school in person and they could not afford the high cost of internet access in their area. Because of the PVEF we were able to provide them and many others with the internet service they need. THANK YOU Penns Valley Education Foundation for supporting our students and their families!!

Sherri Connell, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent
Penns Valley Area School District