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DuPage program to help schools with remote learning

The DuPage County Board has agreed to spend $1.5 million to provide low-income students with internet service.

Under an agreement approved by the board Tuesday, school districts will find vendors to provide internet service at no cost to low-income students. All or some of the costs will be reimbursed by the DuPage Regional Office of Education.

Many school districts throughout DuPage have moved to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"During this pandemic, it's vital for schools adhere to public health guidelines and allow their students to connect and learn remotely," county board member Brian Krajewski said in a statemnet. "Internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for students"

Krajewski worked with board members Julie Renehan and Greg Hart, the regional office of education, the county auditor and school superintendents to structure the new program.

"It's going to allow mom and dad to work from home," Renehan said. "It's going to allow kids to be able to do their school work and not try to drive to a library or to do it on their mom or dad's cellphone."

Funding for the program came from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Funds must be spent by Dec. 15.

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