Christian Aleman
“I just can’t wait to start using these computers.”
That’s what Christian Aleman told us, as Chicago’s newest AT&T Connected Learning Center opened on the city’s southwest side.
Six months later, the 8th grader says that the center’s new high-speed internet access and computers are helping him tackle his homework – writing essays, in particular. He’s also researching high schools and completing some selective-enrollment and private high school applications.
In addition, because he enjoys building and creating with his hands, Christian really enjoyed participating in a robot-building activity at the center, an event where local AT&T employees volunteered to help young Chicago students learn.
This is all part of AT&T’s Connected Learning initiative, where we’re focused on helping to close the digital divide by promoting broadband availability, affordability and adoption. Here’s what we’re doing in Illinois:
Availability
- More than $3.1 billion invested in our wired and wireless networks in Illinois from 2019-2021.
Affordability
- Making no-cost home internet possible for households in need by combining our $30 Access from AT&T plans providing up to 100Mbps service and unlimited data with the up to $30 ACP benefit.1
Adoption
- Opened two AT&T Connected Learning Centers in Chicago to provide students and families with free access to high-speed internet, Wi-Fi, computers and technical resources.
- More than $2.1 million contributed since 2021 to organizations working to help bridge the digital divide in Illinois.
- More than 400 refurbished computers donated to Illinoisans as part of device donations throughout the state.
- Launched a series of digital literacy courses and workshops with the Public Library Association (PLA).
- Employee volunteerism: AT&T employees in Illinois are volunteering to help students learn and apply digital skills.
- Digital Learning Tools: AT&T launched The Achievery, a free digital learning platform.
For Christian, AT&T’s Connected Learning initiative is making a world of difference.
“They have helped me with my schoolwork by giving me more access to things, faster internet, and a bigger screen really helps.”
Here at AT&T, we’re beyond proud to help connect today’s students and their families with the skills, tools and opportunities for success – in and out of the classroom.
1 Plans up to 100Mbps and includes unlimited data. Limited availability/areas. Free internet subject to household’s continued ACP eligibility and application of the ACP benefit to Access from AT&T plans.
