Reboot

 Approximately 60,000 Chromebooks Were Handed Out On April 1,2,3, and 8. Laptops Provided To Families For Internet-Based Learning

updated 4/19/20

Following Governor Larry Hogan’s Stay-At-Home order, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) were to remain closed through April 24. On Friday, April 17, State Superintendent of Education Dr. Karen Salmon announced that all Maryland public schools will be closed until Friday, May 15. Distance learning will continue.

In preparation for virtual teaching of the county’s students (over 136,000), approx. 60,000 Chromebook laptops were given to county families in need April first, second, third and eighth. This number is closest to the actual amount. PGCPS committed $2 million and is working with Verizon and Comcast to cover the cost of Internet access. Recipients were families of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals (FARMS).  Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) assisted these families in signing up for Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, which provides affordable high-speed Internet access at home. The school system helped non-FARMS families obtain a Comcast or Verizon hot spot (or home Internet access).

Wi-Fi was made available at several schools for those with a PGCPS email account allowing students and staff to connect from the parking lots.

“Today, we are embarking on a new phase of teaching and learning through technology,” PGCPS CEO Monica Goldson said in a statement. “Many of our families and students have access to internet services to complete assignments online, while for others, this may be a completely new experience. This shift to online learning is a necessity for the safety of our community and will continue to ensure students have access to high-quality education.”

The school system encouraged local businesses, nonprofits and churches to help. By opening the Internet at local facilities, the community can create free wireless hotspots around the county to ensure students continue learning despite the quarantine.

Donations are being accepted to assist with the shift to online learning. Sam Brin, a former PGCPS student and brother of Google co-founder Sergey Brin, donated $100,000 to establish Internet connections in students’ homes through the end of the school year.

All donations and contributions can be made to the Connect PGCPS Fund through the Excellence in Education Foundation for PGCPS.