Schools hopeful that new broadband funding will aid students
Leaders at school districts in the northern part of Butler County are particularly hopeful about the potential of improved broadband access after Gov. Tom Wolf announced $6.6 million in federal funds for the cause on Dec. 8.
According to Eric Ritzert, superintendent of Karns City Area School District, the area has seen improvement within the last 10 years, but mobile broadband remains a challenge in the Bruin area.
He cited Armstrong as one of the widest internet service providers in the region, supplying connection as best it can to a large portion of the student body.
“The topography and location is definitely a hindrance,” Ritzert said of the rural community.
The $6.6 million in funding, which comes from President Joe Biden’s “Internet for All” initiative, are the first funds to be awarded of the more than $100 million coming to the state. The money will be managed by the Pennsylvania Broadband Authority.
According to a map provided by the Federal Communications Commission, only 48.98% of the Bruin area has mobile broadband coverage.
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