DMPS to Offer Free School Bus Wi-Fi for 2024-25 School Year

Des Moines Public Schools is equipping the entire fleet of more than 135 yellow school buses with free Wi-Fi for more than 14,000 students and staff thanks to a partnership with the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC recently announced E-Rate funding can be used for internet connectivity on buses and will cover 90% of the project cost.

This decision comes at a time when DMPS recently changed athletic conferences, requiring more travel for competitions, and students from transient or unhoused families remain near record numbers.

“Many of our students spend a lot of time on school buses,” said Transportation Director Samantha Sonnichsen. “Now students will have the opportunity to access Wi-Fi and complete homework for the next day.”

The Wi-Fi systems will not only allow students to connect to the internet, but cameras on buses can be monitored live during emergencies improving safety for everyone on board. Drivers and associates can also use Wi-Fi to find alternative routes during heavy traffic or adverse weather.

“We live in a time where Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury but a necessity,” said Associate Superintendent Matt Smith, who leads the Division of School Support Services. “By equipping our buses with Wi-Fi, we are enhancing the safety of our travels and ensuring that all students have equitable access to the academic resources they need, even on the go.”

Installation will begin in September and conclude later this Fall. When the process is complete, all DMPS buses will have Wi-Fi connectivity.