State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson has announced that a second round of Broadband Infrastructure and Improvement Grants (BIIG 2.0) is available for California schools and districts to enhance their network connectivity.

“Because of a wise investment approved by the Legislature and Governor Jerry Brown, an additional $50 million is available to help schools connect to the state’s education network,” Torlakson added. “This will give students access to technology that will prepare them for college and careers, and give teachers more resources to improve instruction.”

BIIG 2.0 builds on the first round of funding earlier this year that provided nearly $27 million to campuses. Schools and districts can apply for the BIIG 2.0 grants through the K-12 High Speed Network (K12HSN). Eligible applicants will be prioritized based on their external connectivity.

For example, first priority will be given to school sites that would be unable to administer the state’s 2016 computer-based California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) program. Second consideration will be given to school sites with limited options to administer the CAASPP. For application information, call (760)312-6227, or visit www.k12hsn.org.