Tomorrow, Wednesday, April 22, San Diego Continuing Education (SDCE) will distribute 500 free laptops to adult students who need support to access and complete remote and online classes and programs.

In March, SDCE transitioned more than 1,000 classes to remote and online instruction due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, many students face challenges and barriers to transition to online instruction, including access to computers and the internet.

The laptops were purchased using Student Equity and Achievement funding, which is specific support for students who have barriers in their transition to online instruction.

SDCE's Rising to Success Technology Access Project (TAP) will provide the laptops during a pre-arranged no contact drive through pick up to maintain social distancing.

SDCE is one of the largest noncredit adult educational organizations in the state and awards nearly 6,000 certificates of completion for high school and career training every year. Providing laptops will allow for mobile learning; increase student remote and online engagement and retention, leading to increased completion rates. Many veteran students and CalWorks students were given priority eligibility.

SDCE is also pursuing resources to provide internet access to students.