NTPS & OSPI K-12 Internet Access Program
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The OSPI K–12 Internet Access Program connects students in need of internet at home to providers with no cost to the student or their family. See more info on OSPI's website >>
Through the program, students whose families are low-income and are not currently connected to the internet can get connected through the end of the 2020–21 school year for free.
Through the CARES Act, Congress provided funds to local school districts and state education agencies to provide support in covering emergency COVID-19 costs. OSPI has entered into agreements with Comcast and Presidio in Thurston County to provide connectivity for students and families to access their online coursework.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for the program, students and their families must:
- Currently not have internet connectivity in their home.
- Be able to show they are low-income and eligible for free or reduced-price meals.
How do I apply?
If you believe your family is eligible, please contact your school’s office to request your voucher code.
- With your voucher code, call the internet provider and give them the code.
- You'll receive equipment and installation support from your internet provider to get you connected and have access to distance learning.
What if I'm not eligible but my student still lacks internet connectivity?
If your family is not eligible for the OSPI program but is still lacking internet connectivity, you have other options. Please see NTPS provided connectivity resources: https://www.nthurston.k12.wa.us/internetaccess >>
Other Frequently Asked Questions
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I already have a hot spot from NTPS, should I apply for this program?
Yes, please apply for this program as a long-term solution for your family’s connectivity needs. Once you are connected to the internet with this program, please return your NTPS provided hotspots back to the school for other families in need.
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Who are the OSPI approved internet providers in North Thurston Public Schools?
The service providers under agreement are Presidio wireless hotspots and Comcast cable internet.
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How long will this program last?
The program will be funded by the state through the end of the 2020–21 school year.
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How will I know if my family is eligible?
Your family can participate in the K–12 Internet Access Program if you meet the eligibility criteria and live in a community served by a participating internet service provider.
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What if my family has outstanding debt with the service provider assigned to my school district?
Outstanding debt to internet service providers is not a barrier to joining the K–12 Internet Access Program. Since families with prior debt to service providers are eligible for the program, it is important they identify themselves as a participant of the K–12 Internet Access Program when speaking to one of the providers.
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How much will the program cost?
The K–12 Internet Access Program is available at no cost to eligible families. There is no monthly out-of-pocket subscription fees or installation charges and past debt to an internet service provider or unpaid bills are not barriers for families who choose to participate in the program.
After June 2021, service will end for families participating in the program. Families may choose to continue service if they wish, though they will assume full responsibility of payment.
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Will the internet service providers be able to increase the price or add more services to my plan?
No. Protecting families’ consumer rights are critical components of our terms with internet service providers. The program is free of charge. There will be no fees for installation or equipment, and families will never receive a bill.
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What information will be collected from me?
In order to confirm your eligibility, the internet service provider will request information from you about your income status.
The provider will share a list of eligible families with OSPI, the state’s K–12 education department, and OSPI will validate eligibility of a random sample. The data will be provided to OSPI through a secure access portal, and this information will not be shared elsewhere for any purpose.
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What internet speeds will be provided to households?
Participating households who are able to have broadband internet service will receive service speeds of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload. Please note, there may be times when local internet speeds slow due to capacity issues.