In light of the global epidemic of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, many companies have been trying to ease the impact through donations and free services for those who have been severely affected by the outbreak.
While many have been focusing on small businesses and healthcare, another field that is suffering is the education system with the number of school closings rising by the day. AT&T is the most recent company to donate to relief efforts to help fund expenses from school closures.
AT&T is putting up $10 million to create the Distance Learning and Family Connections Fund to help give parents, students, and teachers the tools they’ll need for at-home learning. The fund will provide resources to maintain connections and meaningful bonding opportunities for those isolated from family and friends.
“Our country is grappling with an unprecedented challenge,” said Randall Stephenson, chairman and CEO of AT&T Inc., in a press statement.
“Now more than ever before, connecting people with the resources they need to maintain a sense of normalcy is paramount. For students and teachers, that means creating the best digital learning environment. For families, that means simply staying connected to loved ones. Over the coming weeks and months, we’re committed to standing alongside the communities where we live and work, as we navigate through this trying time.”
The company will be pledging $1 million from the fund to the Khan Academy, a platform that offers online learning resources in more than 40 languages. The academy also offers free tools for teachers and parents to help them track student progress. The purpose of the collaboration is to improve and expand online learning resources to meet growing demand from parents, teachers, and students, including those who rely on free resources.
“AT&T and Google have been committed supporters of Khan Academy,” said Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy. “We’re grateful that they’re helping us respond quickly to school closures so everyone can keep learning at home.”