Walker Calls Attention to Free Wi-Fi Hotspots for Students

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. – With students forced to learn from home, state Rep. Mark Walker, D-Arlington Heights, is highlighting free public wi-fi locations where children can continue to participate in e-learning if reliable internet access is not available at home.

“Not every household has access to reliable internet,” Walker said. “That’s why I’m glad to see local locations, including the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, Prospect Heights Public Library and the Mt. Prospect Public Library, provide this needed service in their parking lots to help our students continue their learning.”

State education agencies, along with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Department of Innovation and Technology have developed a wi-fi hotspot map that identifies over 200 locations in the state where students can access the internet to complete coursework. To access the map and find other resources for children, please visit coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/resources-for-families-and-children.

Students and their parents or guardians are asked to continue social distancing at these locations by remaining in their cars while using the hotspots. If a student, parent or guardian is sick or experiencing symptoms, they should remain home.

“As we continue to handle this health situation, it’s important that we ensure every child has the ability to receive their education,” Walker said. “We want every child to reach their full potential, and we cannot let this crisis leave anyone behind.”

For more information on Illinois’ ongoing response to COVID-19, please visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.