It may seem that every tween and teen has a digital device with consistent and reliable access to the tools they need to excel in school work at home and on the go, but that is simply not the case. The “digital divide” remains a real challenge for many in our community. That’s why the Connect2Compete program exists – to help low-income families in Orange County and across the United States get internet access at home.
Nearly one-in-five teens can’t always finish their homework because they do not have reliable access to a computer or internet connection. Some researchers even say there is a “new digital divide,” which is not just about access, but focuses on how to use the internet and computer technology efficiently and effectively. “The majority of K-12 teachers assign internet-based homework, but students can’t take the internet home in a backpack,” said Sam Attisha, senior vice president and region manager for Cox Communications.
“Having convenient, reliable internet access at home means students can better focus on their school work and research, and ultimately reach their full potential.” Teachers also use email and apps to communicate with parents and to post grades online. Having convenient, reliable internet access at home means students can better focus on their school work and research, and ultimately reach their full potential and increase their educational opportunities to be competitive in the job market upon graduation.
National Connect2Compete Program has Southern California Roots
In 2012, Cox Communications, a privately-held technology company, piloted the Connect2Compete program in San Diego, CA to bring low-cost computers and internet access to K-12 families participating in the national free school lunch program. A local nonprofit Computers2Kids San Diego, who had a partnership with the San Diego County Office of Education, distributed refurbished computers, laptops and tablets loaded with essential software to low-income families, and Cox provided participating families with low-cost, high-speed Internet access and in-home wifi. In 2013, the program was expanded to all Cox markets nationwide, including Orange County, and other internet service providers have since launched similar programs.
So, no matter where a family lives in Orange County or around the country, they most likely have a similar program available to them. Nationwide, Cox has connected more than 350,000 individuals through the Connect2Compete program, and expanded the eligibility requirements to include families living in HUD-assisted housing with at least one school-age child, or participation in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
To officially measure the impact of the partnership, Cox Communications administered a survey to participants and now the results are in.
2018 Cox Connect2Compete Survey Results
The vast majority of parents agree low-cost internet service at home gives children a leg up for high school graduation (91 percent) and helps students get higher grades (89 percent). The overwhelming majority of survey respondents reported the Connect2Compete program is beneficial, and they have experienced improvements as a result of having the internet service at home.
Parents participating in the program agree the greatest benefits are the convenience of having internet access at home and using the internet as a resource for their children’s education (97 percent of parents agreed with both statements). The survey also revealed parents participating in the program agree Connect2Compete:
- Makes it easier to communicate with teachers and the school (95 percent)
- Sets children up for success (94 percent)
- Makes children more interested in school work (88 percent)
The survey also revealed most Connect2Compete customers are first-time internet users. Many first-time internet users lack the digital literacy skills necessary to make the most of their internet connection. To help bridge this gap, Cox Communications offers free digital literacy training and resources through the Cox Digital Academy. The digital literacy training is designed to empower low-income families to build educational, economic and social opportunities crucial to realize the full potential of a home internet connection.
How Families Can Register for the Connect2Compete Program
With the holidays coming up, Orange County families are encouraged to apply high-speed internet access from Cox through the Connect2Compete program. For application requirements, call 855-222-3252 or visit http://www.connect2compete.org/cox.
About Cox Communications
Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet, telephone and home security and automation services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable company, Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and digital media advertising. Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in broadband, voice and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For 10 years, Cox has been recognized as a best operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; Cox has ranked among DiversityInc’s Top 50 Companies for Diversity 13 times. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com and www.coxmedia.com.
Media Contact:
Denise Scatena
Founding Partner, Scatena Daniels Communications
