The Tennessee College Access and Success Network is partnering with United Way of Greater Nashville and the Nashville Public Library to expand internet technology at five branch libraries: Edmondson Pike, Looby, Pruitt, Bellevue and Hermitage. The technology will expand each branch’s internet Wi-Fi reach so students and families may access it from the branch’s parking lot, providing students and families in the area another internet access option to participate in K-12 and post-secondary virtual learning.
“Education success, especially college access & success, will be highly dependent on a student's ability to access Wi-Fi during this pandemic,” said Bob Obrohta, executive director of the TCASN. “We need multiple touch points in order for students to succeed. We want to help MNPS and current Nashville college students in the most efficient way possible, and right now, we see Wi-Fi expansion as the best strategy to reach the most students we can.”
"It's critically important that our students and their families are able to access the resources they need to be successful in school," said Brian Hassett, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Nashville. "And we're so grateful for NPL's and the TN College Access and Success Network's innovation and dedication to supporting our families as they navigate new territory this school year."
“We are pleased to partner with TCASN and United Way on this initiative. Nashville Public Library is deeply committed to supporting public internet access and to serving learners of all ages in our city,” said Kent Oliver, Nashville Public Library director.
The sites, which were chosen by a working group of individuals from the Nashville State Community College Foundation, Nashville Chamber of Commerce’s Talent Division, Oasis College Connection and Nashville Public Library, were selected by the number of college students or Metro Nashville Public School students in the area.