Why This Matters: FCC Votes to Cut E-Rate Funding for School Bus Wi-Fi
Kajeet Launches Low-Cost Internet Program for Schools and Buses
In the wake of federal funding cuts to the e-rate program and on-board WiFi, Kajeet offers a new option for Internet connectivity where it matters most for students.
March 11, 2026
As federal funding for student connectivity declines, Kajeet is highlighting its Connected Communities for SmartBus program as a cost-effective option for districts looking to maintain or expand bus Wi-Fi initiatives.
Credit:
Kajeet/School Bus Fleet
2 min to read
- Kajeet has introduced a low-cost Internet program designed for educational settings, including schools and buses.
- The initiative is in response to federal funding reductions affecting the e-rate program and on-board WiFi services.
- This new Internet option aims to enhance connectivity for students in crucial learning environments.
*Summarized by AI
Kajeet announced the launch of Kajeet Connected Communities, a digital equity program designed to help schools (including school buses), libraries and nonprofit organizations provide affordable, managed internet access as traditional funding and grant options decline.
The program offers community-ready 4G and 5G connectivity with rates starting at $8.50 per line per month, along with discounted hotspots and routers intended to support long-term connectivity programs. Service includes Kajeet’s Sentinel platform, which provides centralized device management, real-time monitoring, security controls, CIPA-compliant filtering for education customers and customer support.
Connectivity for Schools and Community Programs
Kajeet Connected Communities is designed for a range of community use cases, including student learning outside the classroom. The program can support connectivity for school transportation, including internet access on school buses.
As some funding programs are reduced, capped or eliminated, organizations are increasingly facing cost-driven decisions about maintaining connectivity programs.
“Funding is tighter, grant programs are disappearing and price has become more of a deciding factor for many organizations,” said Landon Garner, president of Kajeet. “This program was developed to address the current challenges communities are facing. By offering secure, managed connectivity at a lower cost per line, organizations can continue supporting access for the communities they serve.”
Managed Connectivity and Program Availability
Unlike consumer-grade data plans, Kajeet Connected Communities is designed for public-sector and community programs, combining connectivity with tools that allow organizations to manage usage, monitor activity and control costs.
The Sentinel platform provides network management capabilities and data insights intended to help organizations scale and sustain connectivity programs.
Kajeet said program availability is limited and encouraged interested organizations to enroll while pricing and access remain available.
Quick Answers
Kajeet's new program is a low-cost Internet connectivity option designed to support schools and buses where students need it most.
*Summarized by AI
More Management
How to Build a Better Driver Training Program
Ready to boost up your school bus instructor training? Here’s how to pick the right talent and improve recruitment, retention, and safety.
Read More →
CALSTART and Forth Combine to Form Catalyst Mobility
The new name represents a renewed vision for the nonprofit focused on advancing clean, equitable, and affordable transportation solutions that move people and goods.
Read More →
What Makes a Great School Bus Driver Trainer?
Choosing the right school bus driver trainer takes more than experience. Learn six keys to selecting and developing trainers and evaluating program effectiveness.
Read More →
School Bus Contractors Expand Through New Deals, Acquisitions & Partnerships
STA's Canadian division acquires Ontario-based G&L Stevenson Transport while Durham School Services adds a new district contract in California, First Student adds a New Jersey contract, and Minnesota Coaches acquires Halo Transportation.
Read More →
Logan Bus Company Rolls Out AI Phone System for NYC School Bus Families
A summer pilot found that AI agents could handle most routine calls, freeing up time for customer service staff to focus on emergencies and complex family concerns.
Read More →
From Intent to Impact: What I Learned About Leadership from TAPT
A Texas transportation supervisor shares lessons on self-awareness, accountability, managing stress and building trust — and why investing in leadership development matters at every stage of your career.
Read More →
NAPT Names 2026 Award Recipients, Hall of Fame Inductee
Who earned national recognition for their work in student transportation? This year, NAPT named five recipients of its 2026 awards for service, safety, and leadership, plus its newest Hall of Famer.
Read More →
Sponsored•September 2, 2026
2026 State of Student Transportation Report
Driver shortages. Rising costs. Growing safety expectations. More data, but not enough time to act on it. The 2026 State of Student Transportation Report reveals what transportation leaders say is putting the most pressure on their operations—and where they’re investing next. See how your priorities compare.
Read More →
How to De-Escalate an Angry Person: 5 Steps for Handling Workplace Conflict
What makes emotions run high, and how should you handle an angry colleague or parent? Follow these steps for staying calm, listening, showing empathy, and resolving conflict.
Read More →
Sponsored•September 1, 2026
What Readiness Looks Like This School Year
Learn about the challenges shaping the 2026–2027 school year, from persistent driver shortages and budget pressure to technology and readiness gaps. See how school districts are responding and adapting in Zonar’s 2026 Back-to-School Readiness Report.
Read More →