For some students across the country, the school bus ride can be very long, cutting into time that could otherwise be spent on homework or other activities. In today’s tech-dependent world, it is becoming more common for homework assignments and other academic activities to involve connectivity or some type of mobile device.
Wi-Fi providers are recognizing the need to provide options to districts that want to extend the school day into the ride home.
“Many students endure a commute of up to 90 minutes one way, and those hours add up over the year … Outfitting buses with educational Wi-Fi can make a huge positive difference for many students, and it is an affordable solution for administrators looking to connect many students at one time,” Daniel Neal, Kajeet founder and CEO. “Educational Wi-Fi enabled buses extend the classroom—whether it’s for research or connecting with a teacher—each student will have ways to connect with their instructional content.”
Kajeet, a wireless provider has launched SmartBus, a solution for school districts seeking to add Wi-Fi capabilities to their school buses.
As reported by STN, Miami-Dade County Public Schools is securely using Kajeet SmartBus in the school bus.
“… Connectivity in non-traditional spaces is becoming increasingly relevant. Our students will benefit from Wi-Fi on the Go, transforming school buses into vehicles for learning and expanding opportunities to learn before and beyond the bell,” said Miami Dade County Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho.
Radio Engineering Industries, a provider of commercial mobile electronics and fleet/passenger software systems, recently enhanced its Wi-Fi solution for the school bus by offering different data plan options with the purchase of a router.
The router distributes access to up to 65 passengers. Each school has the option of blocking certain websites and requring password logins for added safety and security.
“REI’s solution to combine Wi-Fi routers with data plans, benefits students to stay connected to their classroom while on their bus,” the company said in a statement.
