Genachowski announces programs to connect students to the Web

“With these fiber networks, schools and libraries can provide students and communities with cutting-edge connectivity, while at the same time saving millions of dollars by bypassing more expensive options,” the FCC said.

Finally, Genachowski said the FCC will consider expanding the “School Spots” program, where schools can choose to provide Internet access to the surrounding community after students go home. The National Broadband Plan includes a goal of connecting a school or library in every community to an affordable, high-speed broadband pipe. The School Spots program would allow local users to take advantage of that high-speed connection when it isn’t being used by students.