Kennett and West Chester School Districts Get Internet Grants

WEST CHESTER, PA — Two Chester County school districts will receive state funding to make sure students have digital access needed to keep up in school, and there is still time for other districts to apply.

State Rep. Christina Sappey (D-158th) today announced the districts were awarded funding from the Emergency Connectivity Fund to help close the digital divide and homework gap.

Kennett Consolidated School District was awarded $94,800 and West Chester Area School District was awarded $34,775, a news statement from Sappey's office reported.

Sappey also explained applications for the second round of this program are being accepted until Oct. 13 and she is encouraging interested school districts and libraries to apply as soon as possible.

Created through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, the FCC's Emergency Connectivity Fund is considered the nation's largest single effort to ensure students have access to the digital devices and resources they need for the school year. The program will also help libraries offer their patrons internet connectivity and digital devices to continue their learning at home.

"Having access to technology and the internet is a must for today's students," said Sappey, D-Chester. "I'm pleased to see these funds support our school districts, so that all students are better equipped to succeed."

A total of $20.5 million was awarded to 126 applicants, including 86 school districts, 29 schools, and 11 libraries. Of the total, $15.7 million will be used for equipment and $4.9 million will be directed to securing internet service.

Sappey emphasized that school districts still have until Oct. 13 to apply for the grant funds.

Eligible schools and libraries can submit requests for funding to purchase certain equipment and services between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022. Those that applied for the first round and have additional unmet needs are eligible to reapply.

Eligible applicants should apply at www.emergencyconnectivityfund.org. More information is available on the ECF website.

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