Yingling Applauds Drive-Up Wi-Fi Hotspots for Students

ROUND LAKE BEACH, Ill. – To help ensure students have consistent internet access as they continue online learning during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, state Rep. Sam Yingling, D-Grayslake, is encouraging families to use the governor’s new Wi-Fi hotspot map to find free wireless hotspots near them.

“Educators and school administrators across Illinois have done their best to help students adapt to our new normal through resources like e-learning and virtual classes,” Yingling said. “Unfortunately, the reality is that some students don’t have access to reliable internet connections at home. These Wi-Fi Hotspots are helping bridge the gap and ensure internet is accessible to all students.”

Yingling is highlighting Gov. JB Pritzker’s recently released Wi-Fi hotspot map to help support Illinois students while they continue e-learning. The map was spearheaded by several state agencies, including the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).

The hotspot map was created to help ensure students can properly utilize e-learning, which typically includes video conferencing, online testing, research and assignments, as schools have been closed for the remainder of the school year. Parents and guardians can drive their children to the Wi-Fi hotspots where they may use them for their schoolwork and other needs. To access the map and to find more information on resources for children and families, please visit coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/resources-for-families-and-children.

“I applaud the actions taken by schools, libraries, and other organizations across the state to offer drive-up Wi-Fi hotspots, and thank the governor for providing an innovative solution to address a very real issue,” Yingling continued. “These resources will help our Illinois students succeed during these difficult times.”