Improving Internet Connectivity for Rural Students

This case study outlines the challenges and solutions related to Internet connectivity for K-12 students in the Mid-Willamette Valley area of Oregon during the pandemic. The document describes how the existing substandard Internet infrastructure significantly impacted students' ability to participate in remote learning. Local residents and educators expressed concerns about the difficulties faced by students, particularly those from low-income families, who were disproportionately affected by the lack of reliable Internet access. PEAK Internet, recognizing the urgent need for improved connectivity, sought to enhance local infrastructure. The case study details the role of the Federal CARES Act in providing funding for this initiative, which allowed PEAK to partner with Zayo to expand its services. The collaboration aimed to deliver high-speed Internet access to underserved families, ensuring that students could engage in their education effectively. The results of this partnership demonstrate the importance of community-focused solutions in addressing infrastructure challenges in rural areas.