Resources for Distance Learning

CARES Act Resources for Distance Learning

NASPO is committed to connecting education communities across the country with the tools and resources needed to support distance learning during this time of emergency. The list below highlights NASPO ValuePoint contract portfolios that may help states, school districts, institutions of higher education, and other eligible entities meet critical needs. For questions regarding contracts or portfolios, contact [email protected]. You can also access updated product availability and special offers via interactive tables monitored and updated by NASPO ValuePoint.

The CARES Act approved the Educational Stabilization Fund which includes a total of roughly $30 billion in relief divided into three separate pools: 1) funds to K-12; 2) funds to higher education; and 3) funds to governors. Colleges and universities are eligible for funding under the latter two pools. For more detail on the CARES Act please click here for the breakdown in fund dispersion. Buyers should independently determine if purchases of products and services offered through the resources below qualify for CARES Act funding.

Distance Learning Technology Portfolios:

Distance Learning Support Portfolios:

Sample Distance Learning Offerings for Students:

  • A computer (desktop/laptop) or mobile device (smartphone/tablet) that is less than 5 years old will work. Related portfolio →
  • Speakers/headphones/earbuds for listening to audio or videos presented in courses. Related portfolio →
  • 360-degree intelligent camera (webcam) for interacting in course activities that require video feedback from teachers or other students and video test proctoring. Related portfolio →
  • A stable Internet connection of 56K or greater. Related portfolio →
  • An Internet Browser.
  • Adobe Acrobat Reader (latest version).
  • Microsoft Office (includes Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint). Related portfolio →
  • Windows Media Player.
  • E-mail, including its use for communication between instructors and students, distribution of syllabi, and turning in of assignments.
  • Audio & Video Conferencing Software. Related portfolio →
  • Desk or table and comfortable chair Related portfolio →

Sample Distance Learning Offerings for Schools:

Other Resources (including free resources for Parents)*:
(The links below navigate to external provider websites and AWAY from the NASPO ValuePoint website.)

  • Digital Learning and eLearning Resources: https://www.setda.org/
  • Edmodo is an educational technology company offering a communication, collaboration, and coaching platform for K-12 schools. Teachers, students, and parents can use Edmodo to communicate and continue education, always for free, when in-person learning isn’t possible.
  • There are 2 companies that are offering FREE internet service to teachers or students over the next 2 months for qualifying customers:
    1. Teachers & Students: https://www.spectrum.com
    2. Student only:  https://www.internetessentials.com/covid19

*NASPO has identified additional resources that may be of interest but does not endorse, and makes no representations about, such resources.

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