Additional funding needed in Durham for hotspots for online learning

The push to get all students in Durham equipped with technology by the start of the school year is facing some challenges.

Durham Public Schools needs additional help with funding to supply hot spots in rural areas.

The digital divide runs deep with distance learning. It’s an effort the community is putting into high-gear.

“I hate it that we’re just at a point where we’re stretched thin, and we don’t really know how or what we’re going to do,” said Markeytta Witherspoon, a Durham parent.

Although, she’s fortunate to have the technology needed for her family, she said she’s still stressed about what the online school year will bring for everyone.

“Are they going to be able to afford maybe getting high-speed Internet? Or, are they going to be able to afford for their children to have the equipment they need to progress to the next level?”

It’s these questions Durham leaders have rushed to address by allocating $8.3 million towards Chromebooks and $1.6 million for 6,000 hot spots.

“What they have found though, recently, is that they need an additional $1.25 million for 3,500 additional hot spots,” said Wendy Jacobs, the Durham County commissioner chair.

Money is falling short and time is running out for students who need it the most.

“We are going to go back to our school board and ask for an additional investment,” said Chip Sudderth, Durham Public School’s Chief Communication Officer.

While the school system searches for quicker solutions, the major need is for Durham Housing Authority residents who will have to wait a little longer for technical support.

“We’re working with the Housing Authority, the city and Duke University to provide connectivity at DHA properties. But, that connectivity won’t be available at the start of the school year,” Sudderth added.