Rural students' access to Wi-Fi is in jeopardy as pandemic-era resources recede.

Despite efforts during the pandemic to provide internet access to rural students, many still lack high-speed broadband at home. This lack of access has negative effects on their academic achievement and overall well-being. A study conducted in rural Michigan found that one-third of students still do not have reliable internet access. The decline in access is expected to continue as resources from pandemic emergency measures diminish. The lack of access to reliable internet hinders students' digital skills, academic performance, and interest in STEM careers. Additionally, rural students without adequate home internet are at a higher risk of social isolation. Efforts to bridge the access divide, such as accurate mapping and infrastructure improvements, are ongoing but will take time to be realized. [Extracted from the article]