More than 5,000 children in Osceola County live in homes without internet access, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau data analyzed by online service marketplace CompareInternet.
The figure— 5,064 children, or 5% of the county’s youth— exceeds both Florida’s 4.2% rate and the national average of 4.4%. The analysis, drawn from the newest American Community Survey, underscores challenges students face when completing online homework, research and digital assignments.
“Homework moved online a long time ago,” wrote Caroline Lefelhoc of CompareInternet. “Assignments get posted to a portal. The reading is a link. College applications are online, and so are most of the forms.” Students without reliable home internet must find alternative ways to connect.
While every Osceola County School District student receives a district-issued device through the 1:1 program, connectivity remains a barrier for some households. But the district is addressing that need.
School district officials say they are bridging the gap with an inventory of about 1,100 mobile hotspots, which students can check out if their home internet is unavailable or unreliable. Roughly 475 hotspots are currently checked out to students, with more units being used by staff and departments. Additional units are kept at the district office for emergencies. The school district also operates its own mobile resource, the SMART Bus, which travels to hotels, temporary housing, and other community locations across the county. The bus is equipped with computer stations and internet access, providing students a place to complete online homework and assignments—complete with staff who help with homework. The SMART Bus program also includes activities that promote healthy habits and a wholesome lifestyle.
Mobile hotspots are also available for checkout through the Osceola Library System. One hotspot— which can connect up to 10 devices at a time— is available per library card, can be checked out for 14 days, and cannot be renewed.
