The district originally thought helping families get hotspots, which rely on phone data to create a wifi network, would be the answer. It quickly learned hotspots are provider specific and often run up a phone bill.

The Bozeman school district is working to provide internet access and devices to students needing them, as periodic switches to remote learning are expected to continue.

Since schools first moved to remote learning in early spring, the district knew ensuring students had access to internet and technology would be a crucial challenge in avoiding achievement gaps, according to district administrators.