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Michigan High Speed Internet Office (MIHI) has been working diligently with BEAD award winners to finalize grant contracts for the BEAD program. Award winners are currently in the process of signing their contracts which will allow them to move forward with finalizing the permitting process and beginning construction. Michigan is leading the way on all aspects of the BEAD program and is the first mid-western state to have contract agreements signed which will ultimately lead to the continuing expansion of reliable broadband services across the state.
 MIHI just released a new webisode in the MI BEAD Breakdown video series covering the Michigan Broadband Map. In this webisode, the MIHI team gives a detailed walkthrough of the various map functions, tools and capabilities. This is a must watch episode for anyone planning to use the Michigan Broadband Map to answer the question, “Where’s my internet?”
Watch Episode 5: Exploring the Michigan Broadband Map.
This month we are highlighting programs that help connect Michigan communities to affordable internet. This week we are featuring a resource for students.
Does your student need internet access at home? T-Mobile's Project 10Million helps eligible K-12 students stay connected for school by providing a free hotspot and 200 GB of mobile data each year for up to five years. One data line is available per eligible household.
Families may qualify if they participate in programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, the National School Lunch Program or other eligible assistance programs. For more information and to apply, visit the T-Mobile Project 10Million website.
As students head back to school, they are spending more time online for learning, homework and staying connected with friends. The Federal Trade Commission encourages parents to make online safety part of the back-to-school routine by:
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Using everyday situations to start conversations about online safety.
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Clearly explaining what behavior is expected online and what is not acceptable.
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Talking about online safety often instead of trying to cover everything at once.
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Keeping communication open so children feel comfortable asking questions and talking about their online experiences.
The following list of digital skills resources is compiled from providers across the broadband community. These links can serve as a great point of reference for those looking to resource themselves on anything from artificial intelligence to volunteering.
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AI Texting Course: For 10 minutes a day for 7 days, you can grow your skills and confidence using Generative AI, right from your messages. Text "READY" to 20202 to sign up. This course was created by the Department of Labor.
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Senior Planet: They have a hotline available for people to call with any technology-related questions they may have. Visit the Senior Planet website for extensive tech-related and non-tech-related resources alike. These include blogs, classes, videos and more.
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Flint Eats App: This is an app intended to help residents find food near them that is both healthy and affordable. You can read about the app and watch a tutorial on the Flint Innovative Solutions website.
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Retro Station: You are able to digitize your old media files completely free of charge. These files include VHS tapes, film reels and slides. These stations can be found at the Fenton-Winegarden and Genesee Valley Center libraries.
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MichiganVolunteers.org: The MichiganVolunteers website connects skilled volunteers to nonprofits. Whether you're an individual with a specialized skill and some free time or a nonprofit with a specific need, this website is worth checking out.
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Learning Express Library: This is a free, virtual education platform for all Michigan residents. Some of the many things you can prepare for using this website include citizenship tests, college admission exams, graduate level exams, the GED and occupational certifications.
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DigitalLearn.org: DigitalLearn is an online digital skilling platform, allowing people to learn digital skills on their own anywhere they can access a computer and the internet. Categories include starting out, connecting with others, being safe online, job skills, being productive and mobile devices.
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IMB Skills Build: The IMB Skills Build website is designed for people who already know the basics and are interested in gaining specialized skills. They offer courses for technical skills, workplace skills and sustainability.
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