As we head into the holiday season, I’m reminded that some of the most meaningful gifts don’t come wrapped in ribbon, they come in the form of opportunity. And this year, thousands of Florida students are heading into 2026 with new tools to learn, create, and stay connected because of the work we’ve done together to close the digital divide.
Across Florida, too many families still struggle to access the devices, skills and connectivity needed to thrive in today’s world. That’s why helping to close the digital divide continues to be one of our highest priorities at AT&T. And in 2025, that commitment showed up in real, tangible ways.
This year alone, our team worked with dozens of community organizations to distribute 3,000 refurbished laptops and backpacks filled with school supplies to students who need them most. From Miami to Jacksonville to Tampa Bay and communities in between, these devices weren’t just handed out, they were placed directly into the hands of young people who can now do their homework, participate in virtual learning, explore new interests, and unlock opportunities that simply weren’t possible without access to a computer.
“Equipping students with devices is a strategic step toward a more connected and informed society, where no student is left behind in the ever-evolving landscape of education,” said JoAnn Newman, President & CEO, Orlando Science Center. “By leveling the playing field, we give students access to the tools they need to reach their full potential, both now and in the future.”
We know bridging the divide requires more than devices. It requires places where people can learn and practice the digital skills they need to move forward. That’s why we opened our sixth AT&T Connected Learning Center in Florida this year, this one located inside The Corner at Debs Store in Jacksonville’s Out East neighborhood. It’s a unique collaboration with Goodwill Industries of North Florida that gives residents free access to high-speed internet, computers, digital literacy courses, and educational tools. It’s quickly become a safe, welcoming space for students, families, and older adults to help build the skills that help them participate fully in the digital world.
“Every student deserves the best education possible, and that begins with access to the tools they need to succeed,” said Angela Smith, Senior Director, Miami Marlins Foundation. “By helping get laptops into the hands of students who need them most, we’re investing in the next generation’s ability to learn, grow, and become Major League Citizens.”
Alongside our work in communities, we continue to invest heavily in the infrastructure that powers all of this progress. Over the last five years, AT&T has invested nearly $5.5 billion to expand 5G, strengthen FirstNet for first responders, and deliver AT&T Fiber to more homes and businesses. Today, more than 2.8 million locations across Florida can access AT&T Fiber, giving families the reliable, high-speed internet they need at home.
But the heart of this work comes back to people: the students who light up when they open their first refurbished laptop, the parents who feel a little more confident heading into a new year, and the community leaders who meet families where they are and help us make this impact possible.
As we approach Christmas and look ahead to a new year, I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together, and I’m even more energized about what’s ahead. Because every backpack we fill, every device we deliver, and every Connected Learning Center we open brings us one step closer to a Florida where opportunity is within reach for everyone.
