When the Covid-19 pandemic struck, Newport News Public Schools moved quickly to ensure that EVERY student was able participate in virtual learning -- anytime, anywhere. The “CoNNected at Home” initiative provides resources to help NNPS students and families connect, engage, and succeed in virtual learning. With support from departments across the school division, the Technology Department gathered, purchased and distributed more than 22,000 Chromebooks and over 5,000 hotspots to students. To support students and their families with the virtual world of learning, the department created both in-person and online technology support sites. These sites included training on Chromebook and Canvas, the online student-learning platform, and also allowed families to apply for free hotspots and other low-cost or no-cost internet accessibility. Bus drivers, cafeteria staff and others cross-trained to help Technology with this massive undertaking, enabling Newport News Public Schools to rapidly implement the sudden shift to online learning.

<strong>Contact: </strong>

Chris Jenkins, Director of Technology

<a href="mailto:chris.jenkins@nn.k12.va.us">chris.jenkins@nn.k12.va.us</a>

(757) 881-5461 x.12100