Starting this fall, students at two Highline Schools will be able to get online to use web-based learning programs anywhere they are, without the need for a standard Wi-Fi connection.

Highline is the first district in the nation to provide students with direct access to school-selected educational programs on mobile devices using a safe 4G connection. Internet access is limited to the selected learning tools, so students do not have unsupervised access to the internet.

The online access is being provided to about 1,000 students at no cost to their families as part of a pilot program at Cascade Middle School in White Center and Midway Elementary in Des Moines. All Midway and Cascade students are receiving HP Chromebooks loaded with online curriculum, including a variety of math and reading programs. Students will be able to log on to use the curriculum and access class assignments over a 4G mobile broadband network.

“With this innovation, we are bridging the digital divide and providing our students with access to the online learning tools they need to be competitive and successful in school and beyond,” said Superintendent Susan Enfield.

Nearly three-quarters of Highline students qualify for free or reduced-price meals, and many do not have internet access at home.

“Off-campus connectivity for Highline students is essential for them to achieve the ambitious goals outlined in our strategic plan,” said Highline Chief Technology Officer Mark Finstrom. “We are excited that we are now able to deliver and manage educational resources to our students in a safe online environment.”

Highline is providing the 4G Internet connection through Syntonic On-Ramp Education Service.