Cox doubles Internet speeds, adds in-home WiFi for families enrolling in Connect2Compete program

WEST WARWICK – Cox Communications is doubling the download speed of its discounted Internet service available to low-income families with school-age children through its Connect2Compete program in an attempt to decrease the digital divide.

The company said it also will offer in-home WiFi as part of its monthly service package of $9.95 starting in early December.

“Families will now be able to access educational resources online in half the time,” Jay Allbaugh, senior vice president and region manager, Cox Communications, said in a statement. “A fast, reliable Internet connection gives students the ability to access their assignments, conduct thorough research and better collaborate on projects after the school day is over. Parents can also use the connection to better communicate with teachers and stay in the know with their child’s education.”
Victor Capellan, Central Falls School Department superintendent, weighed in on the program.

“My goal is for every student to have access to the tools necessary to learn and thrive. We want to maximize educational opportunities at school and at home. By raising the visibility of the Connect2Compete program within the community, we are ensuring more families are aware of the high-quality, discounted Internet service available to them,” Capellan said.
Cox said many schools are providing devices to students as part of their educational experience. Homework assignments, educational videos and materials posted online by the school all will be able to be accessed more easily as a result of the changes, Cox said.

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Increased speeds will go into effect on Dec. 3, according to Cox, noting that nearly 130,000 people across the United States are already connected to the program. Equipment for in-home WiFi will be included for all families who enroll in the program after that date.

“Affordable, home access to the Internet, especially for students and their families, is a vital component of ending the digital divide,” Zach Leverenz, CEO of EveryoneOn, the parent organization of Connect2Compete. “Cox Communications’ commitment to not only providing affordable service, but also expanded speeds and WiFi, is an important part of home access for the underserved populations.”

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